Fascia & Myofascia

Fascia is a thin connective tissue creating a 3 dimensional matrix through out the body. It determines the form of each cell, tissue and organ thus the resulting shape of the body as a whole. As well it is the tissue of intracellular communication which allows proper cellular metabol-ism. When trauma (impact or repetitive motion injury) occurs in muscle fibers, the encasing fascia (Myofascia) shortens and becomes tight. Because fascia is a network throughout the entire body the trauma in one location can cause restrictions or maladjustments of body form & function (Posture & ROM) in other parts of the body.

Cause of Restriction : When muscle fibers are injured the body produces fibrin to repair the damage. Simultaneously the matrix openings of the fascia are filled with fibrin. As well, the fascia being injured from repetitive motion can cause cross link adhesions binding the fascia to itself. These restrictions reduce circulation and impact the nerves causing stiffness and pain.

Myofascial Release is the hands on technique of low pressure over long time intervals to allow collagen fibers to re-align for maximum strength and function. A release hold requires a minimum of 3 to 5 minutes before histological change occurs. The tissues are not forced thus the practitioner follows the direction that the body releases as the tissue responds.