Myofascial Release
Understanding Myofascial Release
The John F. Barnes' Myofascial Release Approach® is a safe and extremely effective hands-on technique that will safely and gently release the entire Myofascial Complex for lasting and comprehensive results and authentic healing.
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The connective tissue system (aka “fascia”) is a web-like, whole-body system supporting and protecting the spine, brain, and craniosacral system… as well as every muscle, nerve, bone, joint, blood vessel, lymph, organ, and cell in the body. Science and medicine have ignored this major anatomical structure because most research was done on dead people! But recent scientific studies are finally beginning to recognize the vital importance of the living connective tissue system. Fascia plays an important structural role as the body’s SUPPORT SYSTEM. Like the guide ropes of a tent, connective tissue holds the poles (the bones) in proper alignment so that the tent (the body) functions efficiently. Fascia can stretch and glide, providing SHOCK ABSORPTION and protection to fragile structures like vital organs and nerves. Fascia is also an excellent ENERGY CONDUCTOR for electrical and light energy related to acupuncture meridians and the etheric or electromagnetic field of the body.
I know that’s a bold statement, so I bet you have questions!
Is MFR Like A Deep-Tissue Massage? Is It Just Fancy Stretching?
MFR is not deep‑tissue massage, and it’s not traditional stretching.
Traditional stretching exercises are far too quick and aggressive, only stretching the part of the muscle that was flexible already
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Pressure is gentle, sustained, and never forced
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The therapist follows your body’s natural responses
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Techniques adapt moment‑to‑moment based on what your system needs
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Changes occur at a molecular and cellular level, helping your body create a new, healthier baseline
This is why results tend to be deeper, longer‑lasting, and more transformative.
What Are Myofascial Restrictions?
Myofascial restrictions are when the fascia becomes tight, hardened or protective. They can develop from:
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Injury or surgery
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Inflammation
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Emotional or mental stress
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Poor posture
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Repetitive strain
These restrictions can exert enormous pressure on nerves, muscles, and organs — contributing to pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and symptoms that often don’t show up on scans or tests. They continue to tighten over time, developing a tensile strength of up to 2000 psi (the strength of steel cables)! Imagine that tension on a raw nerve. OUCH!
Because fascia is interconnected, restrictions in one area can create symptoms in completely different parts of the body. The body automatically tries to adapt to these unresolved restrictions with abnormal movements and postures, creating new problems and restrictions over time.
I’ve Heard Of Unwinding, But What Is “Myofascial Unwinding” ?
MFR unwinding is the spontaneous movement of your body that sometimes occurs during MFR treatment. It can feel like the therapist is causing it, but it feels natural, too. It is directed by your nervous system and guided by what you feel physically and emotionally and your subconscious “tissue memory.”
The therapist facilitates the process primarily by keeping your body safe – physically and personally. The felt sense of safety allows the body-mind to let go of the subconscious fight-flight-freeze patterns causing your current symptoms. As you learn to trust your body and the therapist, you will unwind into the precise positions or movement patterns your body needs at that moment.
You can uncover restrictions or holding patterns you didn’t know about or had long forgotten. And as they release, amazing, beneficial physical changes take place.
Can MFR Help With My Issue ?
The short answer is “yes” (there are a few exceptions, of course).
Many diagnoses are merely scientific-sounding descriptions of your symptoms – without reference to the cause of the symptoms. Your symptoms are signs of your body’s natural response to hidden unresolved myofascial restrictions. MFR is practically always a smart choice.
Many medical conditions cause secondary symptoms and problems that can be helped quite a bit with MFR. It makes your life easier and less painful. And it makes the medical treatment for your “dis-ease” more effective.
What Is A Typical MFR Session Like ?
Each session is unique because you are unique. I begin with a brief conversation about how you’re feeling and your goals for the session. Sometimes I will do a standing postural evaluation or movement patterns. Then, we get started with treatment which unfolds based on your body's responses. I observe and feel how different areas of your body respond to the techniques, check in with what you are feeling. It’s a logical and intuitive process for me.
You’ll learn how to listen to your body, understand its patterns, and use simple self‑treatment techniques to support your progress between sessions.
No two sessions will be the same because you are not the same day to day. Your body is always adapting, learning, and changing.
What Is Myofascial Rebounding ?
MFR rebounding is a relaxing and natural rhythmic motion initiated by the therapist. It provides unique assessment information, facilitates the release of subconscious holding patterns and restrictions, normalizes circulation, and increases energy flow. And it’s kind of fun!
Myofascial Release if great for everyone, but especially those who are experiencing chronic pain, have been seeing other health care providers but are not seeing the results they want, who don't respond well to deep pressure and for those who want to be active in their health journey.