05/11/2026
When oral restrictions are affecting feedings, I often educate clients on the benefits of bodywork or manual therapy. It’s not only about what's happening inside the mouth, but also what's happening in the body. When fascia is tight somewhere in the body you will often see dysfunction in the mouth because every part of the body is connected- from head to toe.
Some children don’t “grow out” of tension patterns… they adapt around them.
This sweet little one had a tongue tie release as an infant and still presented with toe walking patterns years later. What many people don’t realize is that even after a tongue tie release, the body can continue holding compensations and restrictions throughout the fascial system.
The tongue is deeply connected through fascial lines into the jaw, neck, spine, diaphragm, pelvis, legs, and feet. When tension patterns begin early in life, the nervous system and body learn to compensate for stability, protection, and function. Sometimes toe walking is more than a habit — it can be part of a whole-body compensation pattern.
Pediatric John Barnes’ Myofascial Release works gently with the fascial system and nervous system to help unwind these restrictions and support more ease, grounding, balance, and body awareness.
With children, sessions are never about “forcing change.”
They are about creating safety in the body so the nervous system no longer feels the need to stay in protective patterns.
I’m always humbled watching how intuitive children are during treatment. Their bodies know exactly what they need when given the space, gentleness, and support to heal. 💜
Toe walking can have many contributing factors and every child is unique. A multidisciplinary approach is important when needed. MFR is not a replacement for medical care, but it can be a beautiful supportive therapy alongside other providers. Get your kids treated with Myofascial Release.
Rowena Cua
Expert JFB Myofascial Release Therapist
Trauma Informed Healing
www.bodymfr.com
