Fascia

I'm sure you've heard the terms fascia and myofascial release.

But whaaaaat does it all mean? Is it the same as massage?

What is fascia?

Fascia is a connective tissue that forms a continuous web throughout the body, wrapping around muscles, organs, bones, and nerves to provide structure and support.It's made mostly of collagen, and assists movement by allowing muscles to glide smoothly and operate independently.

Beyond its structural role, fascia also contains sensory receptors that help with balance, coordination, and spatial awareness.

When it's functioning well, it contributes to ease of movement, without restriction or pain.

Problems with fascia can arise due to lack of movement, poor posture, dehydration, or repeated stress, leading to stiffness, adhesions, and chronic pain.To keep fascia in good condition, it’s essential to stay hydrated, move regularly in a variety of ways, be mindful of resting postures.

In addition the use of techniques like stretching and mobility, foam rolling and other self massage, massage by a therapist, cupping, gua sha, dry needling, massage gun, and a diverse variety of movements in your daily repertoire, will help maintain the best health of your fascia. 

What about "myofascial release"?

Myofascial release is a type of manual therapy.

It involves applying gentle, sustained pressure to these restricted areas to ease soft tissue adhesions, improve blood flow, and release tension within the tissue. 

You can do it yourself, or have someone else do it for you.

Is it the same as massage?

Yes, but it is just one type of massage therapy.

Massage can encompass a plethora of techniques.

How does one even define "massage" anyway, when there are so many techniques and so much diversity in their applications?

Each therapist will deliver a unique touch therapy shaped by their initial qualification, the type and quantity of their experience, and continuing professional development will also impact the therapy delivered.

The therapy you receive will come down to the specific, individual therapist