WHAT IS FASCIAL STRETCH THERAPY?

By Douglas W. Stoddard MD, M Sp Med, Dip Sport Med, ES|January 10th, 2018|

Fascial stretch therapy improves the mobility of your nerves & the flexibility of your muscles and fascia by focusing on the fascial lines that connect through and wrap around muscle, nerves, organs, and just about everything else in your body.

WHO IS FASCIAL STRETCH THERAPY FOR?

People of all ages can benefit from fascial stretch therapy, including any patient cleared by their physician for stretching and active movement, fitness enthusiasts, and athletes of all levels.

STRETCHING FASCIA VS. MUSCLE

Fascia surrounds each muscle, and connects them to each other both superficially and deep. It also connects tendons, ligaments, and bone to form a body-wide, functional network. Fascia connects to all of your organs and systems, too. By integrating a global perspective on stretching these fascial connections, we can reap twice the benefits as static stretching isolated muscle groups.

FST is completely different than yoga, and Pilates. It is completely compatible with other methods of therapy and training.

IS IT SCIENCE-BASED?

The first research into FST effects initiated in 1997 with founder Ann Frederick’s thesis. Current research on the effects of FST on chronic low back pain is being conducted with a team at the University of Arizona Medical School in Phoenix. FST is also based on the extensive science resources found at www.fasciaresearchsociety.org.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A TYPICAL FST SESSION?

Upon your first treatment, your fascial stretch therapist will ask specific questions, and assess the body based on any complaints, or questions you may have. Each session is catered to the client’s needs. All treatments are done on the table with two straps. The straps are there to hold the one leg in place, while the opposing one gets moved around. This assures a true stretch is occurring. For each stretch session, the client is expected to wear stretchy pants, or shorts, and a tank top or t-shirt. Short shorts are not recommended.

Mobility is often improved after the first treatment. The therapist will give you exercises to help maintain this after your first visit. More than one session is normally recommended. Each treatment plan varies with individual needs. Many report a decrease in stress, improved sleep, and significant decrease in pain in sometimes as little as three treatments.

IS IT PAINFUL?

Fascial stretch therapy is NOT painful. It is a gentle modality meant to help the client to relax and stretch out. If there is any pain, or pinching, the client must tell the therapist.