Simply put, fascia is the structure in the body that connects all parts. Sometimes referred to as connective tissue, it is an all-encompassing system found throughout the body. The myofascial system is a continuous web that spans from the top of our head to the soles of our feet. Repetitive movements, poor posture, trauma, surgical scars, and emotional stress may cause restrictions in our fascial system. Your fascia provides a framework that helps support and protect individual muscle groups, organs, and the entire body as a unit. Fascia is often a large component of muscular tightness, pain or dysfunction. Myofascial treatment can free the body of tight, restricted areas, resolve pain, restore function, and improve flexibility.
At Bethesda Physiocare®, we offer a range of fascial treatments. For example, with myofascial cupping, special glass or plastic cups are placed on an area of tight soft tissue to reduce the restriction. The aim of cupping is to release fascial restrictions and improve blood flow to these areas, speeding up recovery time. Cupping became more popular after the 2012 Olympics.
Functional Fascia Therapeutics (FFT) is a new therapeutic approach designed specifically to treat musculoskeletal disorders. This procedure is performed by inserting a special trocar needle into the superficial subcutaneous layer. As the subcutaneous layer has fewer nerve endings, FFT is usually pain-free compared to other needling therapies. In many cases, this technique provides immediate and significant relief of pain and improvements in function and range of motion. FTT is also currently being used successfully to treat non-musculoskeletal conditions; however, more research is to be carried out to confirm these findings.
Fascial Manipulation® (FM) is another relatively new hands-on approach developed by Italian physical therapist Luigi Stecco. In FM, the therapists manipulate densified fascial tissues for several minutes to decrease local tenderness and pain and improve the way you move. Usually, movement patterns and strength are much improved. The approach is being taught in over 50 countries.
For more information about fascial physical therapy, please do not hesitate to contact us.
