FASCIA

 

To understand Myofascial Release, you need to understand fascia.  Fascia is the elastic web of interwoven, connective tissue that ties your body together.  It supports and covers everything in your body including muscles, organs, bones, blood vessels, and nerves.

 

In the normal healthy state, the fascia is relaxed and wavy in configuration.  It has the ability to stretch and move without restriction.  Muscles and fascia work together to support your body and facilitate movement.

 

Inflammation, scarring, emotional trauma or physical trauma, such as a fall, car accident, whiplash, surgery or just habitual poor posture and repetitive stress injuries has cumulative effects on the body.  This trauma causes changes in the fascial system.  Fascia loses its pliability becoming tight and restricted.

 

Fascial restrictions can exert excessive pressure causing all kinds of symptoms such as pain, numbness, or restriction of motion.  Fascial restrictions affect our flexibility and stability and are a determining factor in our ability to withstand stress and perform daily activities.