Fascia forms a body-wide interconnected network of fibrous collagenous connective tissues. This network envelops and connects all organs, muscles, nerves and vessels. While being largely neglected in the past, the fascial web recently gained new scientific attention based on new measurement technologies. New research findings suggest that fascial tissues significantly influence muscular force transmission; they also form the basis of our perception of our own body (proprioception) as well as of many myofascial pain syndromes.

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This workshop begins with an update on new insights regarding the biomechanical functions of the body-wide fascial network. This background will then be applied to a new understanding for treating several common musculoskeletal dysfunctions.

 

These include:

▪  Indications for fascia generated low back pain. Manual techniques for releasing adhesions in each of the three layers of thoracolumbar fasciae.

▪  Palpatory and/or ultrasound diagnosis of fascial neck pain. Feldenkrais inspired myofascial release work on the nucheal fascia.

▪  The magic heel-pad: fostering its force transmitting role between Achilles tendon and plantar fascia

▪  Working with thoracic kyphosis, hyperlordosis and scoliosis from a fascial perspective

▪  Achilles tendon and elbow region pathologies: Manual techniques and suggested self- help exercises for daily life.

▪  Activating the interoceptive function of fascia. Understanding the interplay between insular cortical function and fascial tonicity, and specific manual approaches for this connection.

 

In addition to cutting edge research information from a body worker’s perspective, the workshop will include specific hands-on instruction on different approaches and working techniques aimed at stimulating different neural receptors in fascia (particularly Ruffini and Pacini corpuscles) as well as providing adequate fluid shear to fascial fibroblasts in order to influence their metabolic behavior.

This will include work on the dense layer of the Fascia profunda (‘diving suit’), on muscular septae, and on adhesions within the “Superficial shearing zone” at the bottom of the Superficial fascia. During many of these techniques, the clients will be instructed to support the hands-on work with active micro movement participations from the inside, thereby making the tissue work more specific, more cooperative and more sustainable. Guidelines for the best orchestration of such micro movement participations will be given and integrated into clinical sessions.

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