Fascia Release
Fascia release is an advanced reflexology technique; it is given on the lower legs and feet in order to release a tight, adhesive, miscommunicating fascial structure. The majority of the time this reflexology technique is incorporated as part of a standard reflexology treatment to ease chronic lower back pain and muscular pain.
The fascia in the feet continues up the body, and this is why releasing the main adhesion lines, myofascial spirals, the diaphragms, and organ fascia makes this advanced technique so effective.
Fascia can be damaged through trauma (surgery), injury, inflammation (fasciitis), overuse (RSI), stress, poor posture, sedentary lifestyle, puberty, menopause, and dehydration. For example, spinal surgery causes scarring and tightness, which influences other fascial structures, this can lead to spinal misalignment and increased strain on joints and ligaments.
The fascia system is rich in nerves, which makes it a highly communicative structure interconnecting the entire human body.
When damaged fascia is not addressed, tight, adhesive fascia can cause a variety of symptoms such as plantar fasciitis, stiffness, reduction in range of motion, and chronic pain. Damage to superficial fascia can present as skin sensitivity.
What is fascia?
The fascial system is the body's largest organ. Fascia is a thin, web-like structure of connective tissue that is mostly made of collagen and is rich in nerves.
It is a highly communicative structure. It is the first connective tissue that is formed in the embryo. We each have an inborn fascial tone, which should be flexible and stretchy.
Fascia reduces friction, allowing the musculoskeletal system to slide smoothly. This web-like system is everywhere in the human body. It covers muscles, bones, blood vessels, nerves, ligaments, and organs.
Functions of fascia
The fascial system provides an environment that enables all body systems to work integratively.
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Communication throughout the body
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Compartmentalises organs
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Structural support and stabiliser
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Flexibility and movement; sliding of the musculoskeletal system
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Shock absorption; e.g., plantar fascia
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Blood flow; relies on flexible fascia
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Lymphatic drainage relies on fascia and muscle movement.
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Metabolic support
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Endocrine function: transmits hormones around the body
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Healing and repair
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Proprioception (a sense that lets us perceive the location and movement of our body parts)
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Myofascial force transmission
What is a fascia release treatment like?
The fascia release technique is often given in conjunction with other reflexology modalities to release the affected fascia. Pain is a result of miscommunication in the body. For example, when a patient presents with chronic lumbar pain, the thoracolumbar fascia is worked to release tension and the cause of pain.
The treatment commences with fascia release given on the lower legs and feet.
This is followed by the whole-body resonance technique, where the therapist applies small, gentle impulses while holding onto the patient's feet. This gives the therapist insight into how tight the patient's fascia is.
The main adhesion lines, myofascial spirals, and diaphragms are all worked to release the fascial structure.
Where necessary, the fascial attachments to the liver, heart, and spleen are also worked.