FAQs

Q: What is MFR~Myofascial Release (John Barnes Approach)?

A: Myofascial Release is a manual therapy treatment technique developed by John Barnes, PT. The Barnes technique requires specialized training. The treatment involves the application of gentle, sustained pressure by the therapist on the client into the fascial restrictions. Since the fascial system is like a spider web running throughout the entire body, encasing muscles, nerves, blood vessels, bones and organs, a restriction in one area of the body can produce symptoms in an entirely different location. Myofascial release is the release of the fascial restrictions that constrict the muscle/soft tissues.

Q: What is fascia?

A: Fascia is connective tissue; it is a three-dimensional web that courses throughout the entire body, head to toe. Fascial restrictions do not show up on standard tests such as x-rays and CAT scans, however they are observed in the gross anatomy lab! Typically fascial restrictions and the subsequent pressure on the body’s tissues create pain, restricted motion and decreased blood supply to the area. It is thought that fascial restrictions and hardening can produce crushing tensile pressures of approximately 2,000 pounds per square inch!

Q: What are the major causes of fascial restrictions?

A: The three major causes of fascial restrictions are:

Direct trauma or impact (includingsurgery)~creates an injury from scarring and hardening of tissue.
Chronic Inflammatory Process ~ although the natural healing process takes 3-5 days, involving inflammation, if inflammation is chronic the area becomes hard, ie. repetitive strain injury.
Poor Posture~ sustained poor postural alignment creates a binding down of the fascia resulting in excessive pressure on muscles, nerves, blood vessels and bones. It makes simply standing/sitting tall difficult!
Q: What are the major benefits of MFR~Myofascial Release?

A: Some of the benefits of MFR include:

Reduction in pain! However, sometimes there is increased pain for several hours to a day after MFR treatment, followed by noticeable improvement. Also, due to the interconnectedness of the fascial system, new pains can possibly be experienced in different locations; this should not be alarming.
Improved movement and range of motion.
Increased energy levels and results that last.
Q: Who can benefit from MFR?

A: Myofascial Release can help patients with:

Chronic back and neck pain.
Headaches and migraines.
Scoliosis.
Jaw pain (TMJ dysfunction).
Carpal tunnel syndrome.
Fibromyalgia.
Sports injuries.
Pelvic disorders.
Neurological dysfunction