The result is that both skeletal muscles and visceral organs innervated by that spinal segment are maintained in a state of overactivity. Massage can also play a part in this process, particularly if there is an element of 'emotional involvement' and as a precursor to the other techniques. Fascia Fascia is fascinating to study and work with as it seems to respond well to very gentle techniques like those of cranio-sacral therapy and heavier work like that of Rolfing. In cranio-sacral therapy we use the rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid to free the fascial planes. In Rolfing we are concerned with heating up and stretching the fibres.
Postural imbalances are very often due to the shortening of muscles and related fascia.
Passive stretching of postural muscles therefore is one way of dealing with this contracted tissue. The lumbar fascia is very commonly shortened and for this area I use very deep Rolfing-type techniques, deep NMT and lateral stretching of the fibres. One of my earlier cases I had as an osteopath was Mrs. Z who had chronic back pain. I assessed the lumbar fascia to be contracted and despite being eager to use my manipulative techniques, I worked solely on stretching this area. Because of this trespass, the tissue looses its elasticity and may become painful when the muscle is required to do work in co-ordination with others.