FAQs
Let’s start with fascia, what is it?
Fascia is much than just connective tissue that surrounds and infuses every muscle, organ, vessel, and nerve, all the way down to the cellular level. This three-dimensional living system also perceives, responds and adapts to the world around us. Within it, millions of sensory fibers record movements, tensions and even emotions, creating a complex network that links body and mind in ways that we are only just beginning to understand. It is particularly intriguing to observe how fascia interacts with our experiences. Research shows that it is sensitive to positive emotions and mindful practices like fluid movement, yoga or meditation which can significantly improve its health and elasticity. A properly maintained fascial system can help reduce tension and support overall well-being. It’s a reminder that our physical and emotional states are deeply connected. By nurturing fascia we’re not just caring for our body, we are also fostering how we move through life.
Why does fascia even matter?
Physical trauma, emotional trauma, injury, surgery, poor posture, repetitive movements, holding and bracing patterns, can lead to fascial restrictions and dehydration. These restrictions can apply pressure of up to 2,000 pounds per square inch on structures within the body. Tight or restricted fascia can decrease mobility, affect circulation, decrease digestion, bring on headaches, misalign the musculoskeletal system and place pressure on nerves resulting in numbness and/or tingling. Tight or restricted fascia can also increase our risk for injury and pain.
Examples: a gait imbalance develops after you break an ankle, rounded shoulders and restricted breathing develop after sitting at a computer for hours per day, abdominal and digestive issue arise from the stress of caring for and ailing parent or child. These all lead to imbalance in the fascia.
Visualize enduring such dysfunction in your body every day!
“Fascia is the essence of our being!” – John F. Barnes
What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial release (MFR) is a hands-on soft tissue technique that focuses on releasing restricted connective tissue, or fascia. My goal as a MFR practitioner is to identify fascial restrictions and restore its natural mobility and health. To do so, I use gentle, constant pressure and stretch to the fascial system. From a physiological perspective, there are some subtle changes that occur in the tissue after 90 to 120 seconds, sometimes longer.
How is Myofascial Release different or like massage?
Traditional massage encompasses a variety of techniques and styles of bodywork. Some examples include Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, trigger point massage, and sports massage. Specific techniques for each type of massage may vary. However, almost all techniques will focus on manipulating the soft tissues in different ways but not the fascia. Myofascial release looks to address the root cause of your symptoms with long and focused holds, restoring your fascial system.
What happens during a treatment?
When you arrive to your first appointment, I will evaluate your fascial system in both standing and lying down. This is why it is important to wear shorts and a loose tank top or sports bra. With permission, I may photograph your posture so you can visualize restrictions and understand the relationship to your current symptoms. All manual work is directly on your skin, without oils or lotions. Each treatment is expertly tailored to your situation. Upon completing your first appointment you will leave the session with a clear treatment plan that is designed to meet your goals and address symptoms.
How soon will I notice relief?
This variable really depends on you and your situation. Some of my clients can feel a difference right away. Targeting the fascial system just feels “different” than traditional forms of body work, almost deeper and more profound. And it seems to last longer, days not just hours. On average, I advise two to six treatments for some type of relief. That can mean you are sleeping better/longer before waking up, tolerating walking longer distances, sitting without pain at a 10 out of 10 or taking a deeper and fuller breath. Its important to have realistic goals on what feeling better or relief is for you and that it is a process that does not happen overnight.
“I had a wonderful treatment and was able to start to heal from some chronic tension in my upper back and neck. I’ll be back for more regular treatment. I can feel how important it is to keep up with this work and it isn’t one and done. I love how you explained what to expect and informed me of where you could see and feel the tension and torsion in my body. I appreciate that.”
-Heather H
“Wow, wow, wow! Deidre is amazing, skilled and knowledgeable. She listens to all your concerns and expertly addresses them. I have never felt so great after a therapy session before.”
– Jen A
What kind of conditions/symptoms does myofascial release treat?
Myofascial release can treat just about any kind of condition or symptom that you may have. Examples of conditions that are helped by myofascial release everyday: Chronic pain, auto-immune disorders like EDS, Fibromyalgia, MS; pelvic floor dysfunction; scar tissue; traumatic childbirth; post-op mastectomy/reconstruction; spinal fusions; joint replacements; Covid; whiplash; sprains or strains; concussions; migraines or headaches; decreased range of motion and joint stiffness; arthritis; breathing disorders.
“Deidre is so skilled and helpful with my neck issues from a car accident. So thankful that I found her”
-Mary S
“Deidre is absolutely brilliant, compassionate and extremely knowledgeable about hypermobility/EDS. I saw her a couple of years ago with and injury and returned recently after being diagnosed with hypermobile EDS. Deidre’s myofascial skills are unmatched. She is gentle yet effective. She has helped me from buying into gimmicks and products that might not help me. Deidre’s honesty and care for my overall well-being has helped me on my journey in accepting my diagnosis of EDS. She understands the mental and emotional component in addition to the importance to fascial health.”
Ennana S.
What if I have a complex medical condition?
This is not a problem. I am used to complex patients or patients with unexplained pain or changing symptoms.
“Deidre is amazing!!!! With her years of experience working in physical therapy, massage therapy, myofascial release and yoga, you can’t get a more educated and multi-dimensional, complete provider. I recommend her to everyone.”
-Jill D
What kind treatments/packages available?
You can purchase individual sessions, packages of 6 or 12 treatments to use within a set timeframe or schedule an immersive treatment consisting of multiple sessions in a day for several consecutive days. I have a solution from each individual’s needs and goals.
How long do I have to use the sessions available in my package?
Depending on the number of sessions purchased (6 or 12), I give clients either 8 to 12 weeks to schedule and use a package.
What happens when I click one of the ‘Book Now’ buttons?
When you are ready to book and purchase your first session, click the Book Now button. This will take you to my MassageBooks scheduling system and calendar. You will create an account and simply schedule and pay for your first appointment at a time that is convenient for you.
I have another question that isn’t answered here
Get in touch with me by writing me an email at dbalignsyou@gmail.com. You are also welcome to call or text message me at 608-301-5717.
Questions answered and ready to experience your first
personalized MFR treatment plan?
What is Myofascial Release Therapy?