num_pages: 51
description: "Myofascial Stretching: A Guide to Self-Treatment" is a manual of techniques that, when completed properly, results in permanent lengthening of the body's connective tissue and dramatically improves health and quality of life. It was written for the lay person who has chronic pain, muscular tightness and/or postural dysfunction; and also for therapists to use to recommend home exercise programs for their patients. Myo means muscle. Fascia is the tough connective tissue surrounding every cell of the body from head to toe like a three-dimensional spider web. Injury, trauma, poor posture or impaired biomechanics may cause the fascial system to tighten, putting abnormal pressure on muscles, nerves, blood vessels, bones, organs and the brain. This can result in a variety of symptoms including pain, restriction of motion, and structural misalignment, impairing both daily functioning and athletic performance. Myofascial Stretching removes this abnormal pressure on sensitive structures and allows the body to return to optimal function.The book follows Myofascial Release principles, utilizing sustained pressure and elongation into restrictions in the fascia (connective tissue system) of the body. Two ways to do Myofascial Stretching are included: one using a 4-inch inflatable ball and one utilizing active elongation. The two methods complement each other, especially when one first releases an area of tightness with the ball and then follows up with an elongation stretch to the same area. Myofascial Stretching differs from traditional stretching in four primary ways. The first one involves the time element. All stretches, with or without the ball, must be held continuously for a minimum of 90 to 120 seconds before the fascia begins to let go. It is not uncommon to use the ball in one location or to hold a technique for 3-5 minutes or more in order to release multiple layers of tightness or restriction. The result is permanent release of the tissue, as opposed to the temporary results achieved with traditional 30 second stretching. The second difference is the concept of active elongation. This is what allows one to engage the fascial barrier. The third essential difference is the need to be consciously present throughout the Myofascial Stretching process. It is exponentially more effective when you are able to focus on the tension in the tissue, direct your breath into the restriction, notice the resulting slack as the release takes place, elongate into the next barrier and wait for another release to occur. Regular practice will increase body awareness, and result in improved focus and groundedness. The fourth distinction is that stretching and strengthening occur simultaneously. During active elongation, muscle groups opposing the tight fascia have to contract in a sustained manner. This strengthens them, thereby helping to maintain the elongated state of the tissue just released.Following an introduction to the Myofascial Release approach, the book includes a photograph of every technique with an accompanying narrative description. The 12 sections of the myofascial stretching book relate to different parts of the body and there is a chart to help decide where to start depending on diagnosis and symptoms. This arbitrary division is for simplification in organizing the information. In treatment the body is always considered as a whole.Utilizing Myofascial Release principles for stretching causes a permanent softening and lengthening of connective tissue. This results in decreased pain, enhanced daily functional abilities, refined athletic performance, increased ease of movement and improved posture, structural balance and integrity. It is extremely empowering to see and feel these results in your body and in your life. It is time to Feel Good Again!
language: English
title: Myofascial Stretching: A Guide to Self-Treatment
publisher: ECKO House Publishing