Approach

Fascia Manipulation

Our primary technique involves working with fascia, the connective tissue that supports and surrounds muscles and organs. It is composed primarily of collagen fibers, which provide tensile strength, and elastin fibers, which give it elasticity. This combination allows fascia to both support and move with the muscles and organs it encases. Think of preparing raw chicken. The tough, sticky, partially clear film that peels off the muscle and tendon is fascia.

Fascia is highly adaptable and responsive to changes in physical activity, posture, and trauma. It can remodel itself based on the mechanical demands placed upon it, either becoming more pliable and flexible with dynamic movement or denser and more rigid with prolonged immobility or injury, or repetitive strain. When fascia becomes dense and rigid, it is doing so to protect damaged tissue or joints. But sometimes, especially with chronic stress, fascia won’t remodel back to a more fluid, pliable state. Prolonged rigidity of the fascial structure can cause dehydration in the affected tissues, inhibit the flow of blood (nutrients) and lymph (waste removal). This in turn creates the tightened, contracted nature of that part of the body which then pull and compensatory strain in other parts of the body.

Our core focus lies in the manipulation of fascia, the body's connective tissue, to promote parasympathetic (rest, digest, safe and social) responses in the autonomic nervous system. Utilizing the nervous and fascial system in tandem creates the feedback loop necessary for treating chronic pain. When your nervous system reaches rest state, the body is available to facilitate its regular healing processes.

Understanding Structural Compensatory Patterns

When the body experiences an injury or imbalance, it often adapts by creating compensatory patterns to maintain functionality. These patterns cause other muscles groups to take over the tasks of the weakened or injured areas. Initially, this seems beneficial as it allows for continued movement and activity despite the underlying issue.

However, over time, sustained patterns can lead to chronic pain and dysfunction. As compensating muscles and tissues become overworked, they can shorten and develop tightness, reduced flexibility, and inflammation. This can cause a ripple effect throughout the body, as it continuously shifts its mechanics to avoid discomfort, leading to further imbalances and pain in different areas. For instance, a person with a compensatory gait due to a hip problem may eventually develop knee or lower back pain due to the altered movement patterns.

Furthermore, these compensatory adaptations can disrupt the natural alignment and biomechanics of the body, putting excessive strain on joints and connective tissues. The cumulative effect of these stresses can lead to the development of chronic conditions such as tendinitis, bursitis, or even degenerative changes in the joints over time.

While these patterns are stubborn, the modalities practiced at Groundwork Therapy are based on the research in returning the body’s structure to its original balance.