The fascia therapy - tasks and influence on pain

Fasciae: What are they and how do they affect your pain?

What are fasciae?

The Facet joint therapy A long-overlooked tissue is coming into focus. Fascia is a fascinating tissue in the human body that has long been understudied. This white network of connective tissue is located beneath the skin and Envelops muscles, organs, bones and even nerves. Formerly viewed as mere packing material, we now know that fascia is a central role for our stability and mobility play. They form a comprehensive network that runs through the entire body and connects all structures with each other.

What tasks do fasciae have?

Tendons are connective tissue sheaths that surround muscles, organs, and bones and connect them together. They give the body shape, transmit force from muscle to muscle, and contain many nerve endings. Therefore, tendons can also cause pain.

Typical symptoms when fascia pain

• pain that is pulling and difficult to locate
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after prolonged sitting
• a feeling of tension or «clinging»
• limited mobility

Important: «Fibromyalgia» is not a separate diagnosis. Similar complaints can be caused by muscles, joints, nerves, or even stress and poor sleep. That’s why a thorough examination is always the first step.

Why fascia pain can occur

Lack of movement, one-sided postures, overexertion and stress are considered typical triggers. Often, «stiffened fascia» is mentioned that needs to be released. Whether massage or a fascia roller actually mechanically changes the tissue is not scientifically proven. Experts suspect that the positive effects arise more from the nervous system: Pain sensitivity decreases, and stretching is better tolerated.

Nutrition, sleep and stress

A balanced diet, enough sleep, and regular exercise are good for the entire connective tissue. Special «fascia diets,» on the other hand, are not scientifically proven.

Sciatic pain therapy: What the studies show

A meta-analysis of 21 studies on self-massage with the fascia roller found that after rolling before training, mobility improves slightly (on average by about 4%). After rolling after training, muscle pain is somewhat less severe (Wiewelhove et al., 2019).

Anyone who wants to become more mobile permanently needs patience: Another meta-analysis involving 11 studies showed that mobility only noticeably improved after rolling over for more than four weeks (Konrad et al., 2022).

Therefore, fascial therapy is not a miracle cure, but a useful addition to active exercise.

Fascia therapy in our practice

• Investigation: We determine where the complaints come from and rule out other causes.
• fascia massage and manual techniques: With manual therapy and with targeted fascia massage we relieve tension and improve mobility.
• Trigger points: In case of painful muscle stiffness, we use Dry needling one.
• Active exercises: Stretching, strengthening and elastic movements are the foundation for the effect to last.
• Home game: We show you how to use the fascia roller correctly.

Read more about a common application area in the article Neck pain.

Self-help: Using the fascia roller correctly

• Roll slowly, about 1 to 2 minutes per muscle group.
• Do not roll over bones, joints or fresh injuries.
• The pressure may be uncomfortable, but it should not cause severe pain.
• Continue doing it regularly for several weeks, combining it with stretching and strengthening exercises.
• If you have a history of blood thinners, varicose veins, thrombosis, or osteoporosis, please ask your doctor beforehand.

When to see a doctor?

Have any pain evaluated by a doctor if it occurs at rest or at night, if it occurred after an accident, if it is accompanied by fever or unintended weight loss, or if numbness, tingling, or weakness develop. A swollen, warm, and painful leg should be examined the same day.

Frequently asked questions about fascia therapy

Does a fascia massage help with pain?

It can relieve pain and stiffness in the short term. It is most effective when combined with active exercise.

How often should I use the fascia roller?

Regularly, for example several times a week. Studies show that for lasting improvements in mobility, effects are not seen until after more than four weeks.

Is fascial therapy scientifically proven?

Yes, there are small but measurable effects on mobility and muscle pain. However, many explanations regarding «stiffened fascia» have not yet been proven.

Sources

• Wiewelhove T. et al. (2019): A meta-analysis of the effects of foam rolling on performance and recovery. Frontiers in Physiology. PubMed
• Konrad A. et al. (2022): Foam rolling training effects on range of motion: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sports Medicine. PubMed

Date in Zürich Wipkingen and Höngg

Does your body feel stiff and tense? We’ll find out where the discomfort is coming from and combine fascial therapy with exercises that have a lasting effect. Book appointment online or by phone at 044 585 99 49.

This article does not replace medical advice.