Last updated 21 February, 2012                                                                                                                                 Built using Serif WebPlus X4

Providing the complementary therapies of massage, myofascial release, Indian head massage, reflexology and reiki in Barwell (Leicestershire) – convenient for Hinckley, Leicester, Nuneaton, Bedworth and surrounding villages

NOTE:  The treatments that I offer are complementary and should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice. This is because it is vital that we do not cause any delay to medical treatment of symptoms that could be a warning sign of an undiagnosed medical condition.

Seek medical advice before having a massage if you have phlebitis, thrombosis, varicose veins, severe acute back pain, or fever.

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What is myofascial release therapy?

Myofascial (pronounced myo fashal) derives from the Latin words 'myo' for muscle and 'fascia' for band. Fascia, also known as connective tissue, is a continuous 3D web of very, very small tubes that extends without interruption from the top of the head to the tips of the toes. It surrounds, infuses and protects every muscle, tendon, bone, ligament and organ in the body. In a healthy body the fascia is relaxed and wavy, providing cushioning and support, allowing our body to move safely without restriction or pain. The main components of fascia (collagen and elastin) give it strength and flexibility. In that sense it's a bit like a full-body sweater. Sometimes this sweater gets pulled out of shape because of physical or emotional trauma or injury in one part of the body, and this affects other parts of the body because of the restriction the pull creates. The fascial network loses its cushioning and becomes hardened, pulling internal structures out of alignment.

Myofascial release therapy promotes the philosophy that the mind and body work together in keeping us healthy. The body learns and remembers postural positions, actions and emotions, from simple things like holding a cup to more complicated ones like how we stand and walk. Our bodies remember how we respond to actions and emotions, both the positive and the negative. Some negative emotions create a holding pattern in our fascia, sometimes with associated pain or discomfort.

Myofascial Release (MFR) is a specialised physical therapy that affects and releases these restrictions within the fascial network. It can also help to alleviate pain and restore mobility and greater flexibility. The technique involves gentle, sustained stretching to stimulate fascial release that might also help the body release emotional tension. As your body begins to recover from the tensions and twists of the fascia it begins to unwind. Some clients feel their body becoming lighter, or begin to twitch or feel their body moving during treatment. This is a natural process and is a sign that your body is beginning to correct itself.

Myofascial Release Therapy

What happens during a treatment?

Because you are unique and your tissues are quite individual and different from anyone else, all therapy sessions are one-to-one. I will use different release techniques and movements on you to elongate, stretch and free your fascia.  All techniques are hands-on and performed directly on the skin. I don't use creams or oils because this would hinder me from detecting any restrictions of your fascia.

It is likely that I will ask you to move while the treatment takes place: possibly lie on the massage table, sit or even stand, depending on what is needed in order to help gain release of the fascia and bring the body back into alignment and balance. If you are asked to move, it is so that you can resist any actions I make, and thereby increase the effect of the fascial stretching.  

The gentle but firm stretching used in MFR therapy enhances a breakdown of restrictive tissue, and the softening and lengthening process which takes place helps to realign and restore balance to the body, relieving pain and improving blood circulation. While undergoing treatment you may experience a gentle tug on the skin due to the stretching; or an itching or tingling sensation. Regard this is a good sign, meaning more blood is getting into that particular area of the body to assist the healing process. I may recommend some release work that you can carry out yourself when you get home.

When you come for a treatment...

We begin the session with an initial consultation during which we discuss details of your symptoms, gain a history of accidents and injuries along with all other relevant details. We will then complete an evaluation of your posture, how you stand and move.

Then I will ask you to lie on the massage table where I will use palpation to fully evaluate your muscles, joints and connective tissue (fascial) system. This enables me to see and feel for areas that require treatment. I will treat the areas of discomfort as well as areas of tension elsewhere in your body in order to help balance your entire muscle and fascial systems.

The treatment requires clients to be in underwear or, if you prefer, please wear or bring shorts. Ladies may opt to wear a vest or cropped top.

Please don't use body moisturiser or anything else that moistens your skin, because I need your skin to be dry for the treatment.

How might myofascial release therapy help me?

Please call me on 07765 544758 or email me at info@specialistmassage.co.uk to find out how MFR therapy might help you.