Therapeutic Insight: The John F. Barnes' Myofascial Release Perspective—Move Out of the Dark Ages of Health Care, MASSAGE MagazineThe myofascial release principles I have been teaching for almost 40 years are being verified by leading scientists in the fields of fluid dynamics and the viscosity of the ground substance within the fascial system.

Two books, Cells, Gels and the Engines of Life by Dr. Gerald Pollack and the Extracellular Matrix and Ground Regulation: Basis for a Holistic Biological Medicine by Dr. Alfred Pischinger, one of Germany’s leading scientists who has been researching the fascial system for more than 30 years, are confirming my experiences and principles. We were taught linear principles for a nonlinear body. Myofascial release techniques recognize that the fascial system is nonlinear and that it has a fractal nature that responds to the important concepts of tensegrity, mechanotransduction, chaos, complexity and fractal theories and techniques.

Research has confirmed the importance of treating the cross-links that develop in the fibrous web and the ground substances, the fluid component of the fascial system that has been overlooked by health care. “Phase transition” is the phenomenon that occurs when ice transforms into water. This unique and important principle is what differentiates myofascial release from other forms of therapy.

Many of the techniques we were taught as therapists had logical theories but were terribly flawed. The problem is that the methodology to produce consistent, lasting results did not materialize. Most forms of therapy only produce temporary results for a short period of time. This flawed methodology has limited our effectiveness and the results for our patients/clients. The John F. Barnes’ Myofascial Release Approach® has logical principles that produce effective long-term, consistent results—all of which is now being verified by research.

Another important finding is that the form of sustained myofascial release we utilize produces Interleukin-8, the body’s natural anti-inflammatory.

Due to the tremendous success of myofascial release, we have been experiencing such an impressive growth that we have moved to a beautiful and much larger facility. The Sanctuary will be a haven for clients and therapists who desire the utmost care.

Myofascial Release is part of an important evolution in health care that will allow you to decrease burdensome paperwork, substantially increase your effectiveness and income, and enjoy the fulfillment of profoundly helping others.

Sincerely,

John

John Barnes, MASSAGE MagazineJohn F. Barnes, P.T., L.M.T., N.C.T.M.B., is an international lecturer, author and acknowledged expert in the area of myofascial release. He has instructed more than 50,000 therapists worldwide in his myofascial release approach, and he is the author of Myofascial Release: The Search for Excellence (Rehabilitation Services Inc., 1990) and Healing Ancient Wounds: The Renegade’s Wisdom (Myofascial Release Treatment Centers & Seminars, 2000). He is on the counsel of Advisors of the American Back Society; he is also on MASSAGE Magazine’s Editorial Advisory Board; and is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association. For more information, visit www.myofascialrelease.com or you can view a new brochure here

For more information about myofascial release, view two separate excerpts from the Fireside Chat with John F. Barnes, PT DVD on YouTube. Click on the following links:

Part 1

Part 2

To find us on Facebook, click on the following link: www.facebook.com/myofascial.release