Myofascial release is hands-on work that frees restricted fascia, the web of connective tissue that wraps and links every muscle, bone and organ. Archie has offered myofascial release in University Heights, San Diego since 1999, combined with corrective exercise, posture & movement education so the client can embody the change long after the session.
What is fascia, and why does it get restricted?
Fascia is a continuous, tensile network that gives the body its shape and transmits force from one area to the next. Injury, surgery, repetitive work and long hours sitting can leave it shortened and bound. Because it is all connected, a restriction in one place can pull on another: tight hips can drive low-back pain, and a restricted chest can pull the head and shoulders forward.
How a myofascial release session works
- Assessment. We look at how you stand, walk and breathe to find where restrictions are coming from, not only where it hurts.
- Slow, sustained pressure. Fascia responds to slow, steady work rather than fast or forceful strokes. Pressure is adjusted for the client as needed throughout.
- Active participation. You breathe into areas and make small, guided movements while the tissue is worked, which helps it release more fully.
- Corrective exercise. You leave with a few simple movements to keep the change, at your desk, in the gym or in the water.
Common reasons people book
- Chronic low-back, neck and shoulder pain
- Hip and knee pain, and feeling out of balance after surgery
- Desk and screen strain: sore wrists, rounded shoulders, tight chest
- Sports recovery for surfers, runners, climbers and lifters
- Posture: wanting to stand taller and move with less effort
Myofascial release and Structural Integration
Structural Integration, also called the Rolf Method, uses myofascial release as its main tool but organizes it around the whole body’s alignment. You can book focused myofascial release for one problem area, or the full Structural Integration Ten Series for whole-body change.
Rates and location
Sessions are 80 minutes ($180) by appointment at 4452 Park Blvd, Ste 102, San Diego, CA 92116, close to North Park, Hillcrest, Normal Heights and Mission Hills.