Definition of the week: Fascia

fas·ci·a  noun  

ˈfaSH(ē)ə

Fascia is a sheet or band of fibrous connective tissue that surrounds, separates, and/or binds together muscles, organs, blood vessels, nerves and other soft structures of the body.  It is the soft tissue components of the connective tissue the provide support and protection.

You may here your therapists use the term myofascia work or myofacial release.  The therapist may be referring to a soft tissue manipulation, or trigger point therapy.  Approaches may range from passive or active release therapy (ART), Graston therapy, stripping, foam rolling, or other tools and techniques may be applied both directly and indirectly

Fasciitis is a term most commonly associated with fascia.  Fasciitis is the inflammation of the fascia, connective tissue. This inflammation can be very painful.  Many patients prefer to have deep tissue work to directly  release the tension in the fascia.  A therapist may use tools to help stretch the adhesive tissues to mobilize them.  Our therapists will use their hands, knuckles and elbows to stretch the inflamed tissues with a pressure that is comfortable for you.

An indirect approach will be used for patient's that cannot handle or do not like deep pressure.  This approach would include ART, and gentle stretching to help mobilize the fascia.  The release may affect the muscles surrounding it, causing a sense of relief for the patient, sometimes allowing a deeper massage for the latter treatment.

"Like ligaments, aponeuroses, and tendons, fasciae are dense regular connective tissues, containing closely packed bundles of collagen fibers oriented in a wavy pattern parallel to the direction of pull. Fasciae are consequently flexible structures able to resist great unidirectional tension forces until the wavy pattern of fibers has been straightened out by the pulling force. These collagen fibers are produced by the fibroblasts located within the fascia.

Fasciae are similar to ligaments and tendons as they are all made of collagen except that ligaments join one bone to another bone, tendons join muscle to bone and fasciae surround muscles or other structures."

-Wikipedia

FASCIAL MOBILIZATIONThe fascial system is one continuous, laminated, connective-tissue sheath that spreads without interruption throughout the entire body in a three-dimensional web. Fascial mobilization allows therapists to locate and address restrictions in the fascial system that are causing asymmetries, postural malalignment, abnormal tensions, and pressures that can lead to pain and dysfunction. The goal of fascial mobilization is to produce a well-balanced, symmetrical, and mobile body within the skeletal, soft-tissue, and craniosacral systems.


References:
http://www.massagetherapy.com/glossary/

The Graston Technique: Therapy with the use of tools

Rav Says.....

An effective therapy option offered by our Chiropractor:

The Graston Technique incorporates a patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables Dr. Nagra to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and restrictions that affect normal function.

Most of the back is comprised of muscles, ligaments and tendons, and injuries to these soft tissues play a significant role in the pain and dysfunction associated with back problems. While it may not sound like a serious injury, a simple muscle strain or torn ligament in the back can cause excruciating pain and difficulty with movement.

When an injury within the soft tissue occurs, the tissue repairs itself in a haphazard pattern, forming scar tissue. While the scar tissue itself is not painful, it does tend to limit range of motion, and the ongoing stiffness may contribute to back pain or neck pain on an ongoing basis.

The Graston Technique is used to treat injuries in a variety of ways. 

• Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers
• Increases skin temperature
• Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern
• Alters spinal reflux activity (facilitated segment)
• Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area
• Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells
• Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity 

Using specially designed instruments Dr. Nagra's ability to detect adhesions, scar tissue or restrictions in the affected areas is greatly increased. He uses the stainless steel instruments to comb over and "catch" on fibrotic tissue, which immediately identifies the areas of restriction.Once the tissue has been  identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body. Patients usually receive two treatments per week over 4-5 weeks. Most patients have a positive response by the 3rd to 4th treatment. To book a session with Dr. Nagra, or any questions you may have regarding treatments using the Graston technique please call Kerissa or Alyssa @ 604-850-2511.

Meet Dr. Nagra

Dr. Rav Nagra

Dr. Rav Nagra was born and raised in Abbotsford, attending W.J.Mouat high school and graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology at UFV. He was inspired to pursue a career in chiropractic care after a significant knee injury hindered a collegiate football career. After receiving treatment for his knee, Dr. Nagra realized the significant benefits of chiropractic care in the treatment of a wide variety of conditions.

Dr. Nagra has returned to the Abbotsford area after attending the University of Western States in Portland, Oregon where he graduated with honors. He supports a patient-centered approach and has experience in the latest treatment methods including Graston Techniques and Active Release Technique. Dr. Nagra is dedicated to providing gentle, thorough, and effective chiropractic care for the whole family.

Dr. Nagra looks forward to helping you overcome your injuries or chronic ailments to achieve greater health and wellness. Contact Dr. Nagra at 604-850-2511 to schedule and appointment.

Some common problems treated by Dr. Nagra:

• postural alignment

• back pain & neck pain

• headaches/whiplash

• scoliosis

• plantar fasciitis

• rotator cuff (shoulder) problems

• sports injuries

• chronic pain conditions

• sciatica

• sports performance enhancement