What is Myofascial Release?* (the technical answer)
The John F. Barnes’ Myofascial Release™ (JFBMFR) approach is a hands-on technique that provides gentle, sustained pressure into myofascial restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. JFBMFR is safe, gentle, and consistently effective in producing positive and lasting results. The theory of JFBMFR requires an understanding of the fascial, or connective tissue, system.
Fascia is a specialized system of the body that resembles a spider’s web or a knitted sweater. It is very densely woven, covering and interpenetrating every structure of the body.
The fascial system is not just a system of separate coverings; it is actually one uninterrupted structure that exists throughout the entire body, head to toe, front to back, side to side.
Fascia connects each part of the body to every other part, somewhat like how the continuous strand of yarn in a sweater connects each stitch in the sweater to every other stitch. In the normal healthy state, the fascia is relaxed and has a wavy configuration. It has the ability to stretch and move without restriction.
When we experience physical trauma or inflammation, the fascia loses its flexibility. It becomes very tight and can be a source of tension to the entire body. Trauma—such as a fall, whiplash, surgery, or even habitual poor posture—has a cumulative effect on the fascial system. The fascia can exert excessive pressure, producing pain, headaches, or restriction in motion.
Trauma or inflammation can cause fascia to bind or constrict, putting excessive pressure on nerves, muscles, blood vessels, bones, or organs. Since standard tests—such as X-rays, CAT scans, MRIs, myelograms—do not show fascial restrictions, it is thought that many people suffering with pain, headaches, or lack of motion may have fascial problems, but most go undiagnosed.
JFBMFR allows us to look at each patient as a unique individual. A JFBMFR therapy session is a hands-on treatment in which the therapist uses many JFBMFR techniques and movement therapies.
* Learn more on John F. Barnes’ MFR website: www.myofascialrelease.com.