Simply stated, fascia is the connective tissue in our body. It is a weblike structure, continuous from head to toe and fingertip to fingertip. It surrounds and encases every organ, joint, bone and muscle. It holds our bodies together and gives us structure, shape, and strength.

Our fascia is a system of liquid-filled tubules, like tiny straws creating a spiderweb. Fascia is meant to glide smoothly while supporting all the parts of the body.

Example - healthy connective tissue in the shoulder supports the joint while allowing smooth range of motion. Unhealthy fascia acts “sticky” or “bound up” or “tight.” The shoulder no longer moves smoothly, and often there is pain. X-rays show no damage to the joint, but the range of motion decreases and pain increases.

Many factors contribute to fascia health. Dehydration, injury, repetitive motion, posture and body alignment are at the top of the list. Scar tissue from surgery or injury is another big culprit.

One well-known example of unhealthy fascia is carpal tunnel syndrome. Often due to repetitive motion and/or body mechanics, the fascia in the wrist has restricted and tightened. This causes pressure on the median nerve that runs through the carpal tunnel, which in turn causes numbness, tingling and/or pain in the hand and wrist.

Myofascial release (MFR) is a gentle hands-on treatment that helps the fascia release tightness and restriction. In the example of carpal tunnel syndrome, MFR can be used to open the restricted area and allow the median nerve to function properly.

MFR treatments look similar to a massage, except MFR does not use oil and the therapist’s hands are holding still in one position for several minutes at a time. Treatments are done on bare skin (to the client’s comfort level). The therapist applies gentle pressure for an extended period — generally five minutes minimum — and waits, allowing the body to release in its own time and its own way. The release feels like a shift, movement or elongation of the tight area. As the tissue softens, muscles and joints can return to healthier and smoother function.

Treatments do not involve scraping, deep tissue pressure or strong trigger point work. MFR respects the body’s innate wisdom and does not attempt to force the tissue in any way.

Many (most? all?) babies are born with tightness or restrictions from their time in the womb and/or their birth journey. Often, mothers say their newborns feel “stiff” or “tight” or “rigid.” Tight babies can be colicky, cry often, and are not easily soothed. They don’t sleep well, don’t eat well, and often have constipation, gas and/or reflux.

Newborns facilitate their own healing by moving into positions that open restricted areas. I support baby’s body as they do the work. It is a marvelous process.