09/04/2016
Here are a few excerpts from The Fibro Manual by Dr. Ginerva Liptan, MD:
“A massage therapists recommended I try a manual therapy technique, the John F. Barnes’ Myofascial Release Approach, which involves slow, prolonged stretching that releases restrictions in the fascia, the connective tissue around the muscle. After several sessions I experienced dramatic pain reduction. With ongoing Myofascial Release therapy, I felt well enough to return to medical school. Based on my own relief with Myofascial Release I was convinced that the fascia was the source of fibromyalgia pain, and my research has focused on it ever since.”
“MFR is by far the most effective treatment I have found to unstick the fascia and reduce fibromyalgia pain. When I stumbled across it after being diagnosed, I saw a huge improvement in my pain levels, particularly in my back, neck, and jaw. I also noted changes in the way my body felt: my tissues finally started to relax. For days after treatment, I slept deeper and woke up feeling less tight. Looking back on it from a medical perspective, the therapy was reducing the fight-or-flight nervous system influence so my tissues could unlock. Indeed, studies have shown the gentle stretching of the fascia does activate the relaxation response. (Cottingham 1988) Now if I do even a few minutes of self-myofascial release techniques using a ball or foam roller, it quickly helps me relax and reduces tightness. I found that the best way to talk to my brain is though my fascia!”
“FAQ: Is Myofascial Release the same as deep tissue massage?
Unfortunately, ‘myofascial release’ has become widely and inappropriately used as a generic term for deep tissue massage, and many practitioners conflate the two. Some athletic trainers also teach foam roller techniques that they call myofascial release. Deep tissue massage or foam rolling is not helpful in fibromyalgia. When I refer to myofascial release I mean the gentle prolonged stretching of the fascia of the John F. Barnes’ Myofascial Release Approach.”
You can order Dr. Liptan’s important new book by calling 800-327-2425 ext. 4.