New service coming October 2017
Hi all,
I am thrilled with how business has been going lately! Thank YOU!
I knew before I completed my certification in sports massage last winter that I would want to expand my skill set. I am excited to announce that I will be certified in myofascial release (MFR) in October!
I have been studying fascia and myofascial release at home for the last month. I will be driving to South Dakota this weekend to complete my hands-on certification in myofascial release.
Here's a quick run-down of some FAQs on fascia and myofascial release:
Q: What is fascia?
A: Fascia is a type of connective tissue composed of collagen, elastin and reticular fibers suspended within a ground substance. Fascia is a three dimensional web. If you were to remove all the skin, muscle, bones, nerves, veins, arteries and organs you would be left with a form that resembles a cotton candy version of the original animal (Pascucci, 2007).
Q: Why is it important to address issues in fascia?
A: Restrictions or adhesions can develop in the fascia from overuse and trauma. Adhesions can cause pain, poor muscular biomechanics, decreased strength and lameness. When one part of the fascial network is injured or strained in any way, the effects can be experienced far from that local site (Pascucci, 2007). If the strain is long lasting, it can eventually be incorporated into the fascial weave which would result in a nervous system adaptation (Pascucci, 2007). When the nervous system adapts to a strain pattern, the movement algorithm is altered to find the path of least resistance and this new movement pattern can later lead to problems (Pascucci, 2007).
Q: How is myofascial release different than sports massage?
A: Myofascial release requires sustained pressure to release adhesions in the fascia whereas sports massage uses faster strokes. The faster strokes used in massage does not greatly influence the fascia.
I personally have been undergoing adhesion release therapy to regain loss of motion in my lower back, hips and adductors. The adhesion removal has increased my range of motion and decreased the amount of pain I feel in my lower back. If you are interested in having adhesions on your body addressed, send me a message and I can get you in touch with my provider.
Let me know if you have any questions! I look forward to helping horses on an even deeper level.
-Chloe
References:
Pascucci, James V. Equine Structural Integration: Myofascial Release Manual. 2007. Print.