“The fascia is a specialized system of the body that has an appearance similar to a spider’s web or a sweater...
Fascia plays an important role in the support and function of our bodies, since it surrounds and attaches to all structures. In the normal healthy state...it has the ability to stretch and move without restriction. When one experiences physical trauma, emotional trauma, scarring, or inflammation, however, the fascia loses its pliability. It becomes tight, restricted, and a source of tension for the rest of the body. Trauma, such as a fall, car accident, whiplash, surgery, or just habitual poor posture and repetitive, stress injuries has cumulative effects on the body.
The changes trauma causes in the fascial system influences comfort and function of our body. Fascial restrictions can exert excessive pressure causing all kinds of symptoms producing pain, headaches or restriction of motion. Fascial restrictions affect our flexibility and stability, and are a determining factor in our ability to withstand stress and perform daily activities.”
-John F. Barnes
Used w/ permission from RSI/John F., P.T
Illustration & Excerpt
taken from www.myofascialrelease.com