Fascial Stretch Therapy (TM) or FST, is a type of stretching that targets the muscles, and the fascia (the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and joints). FST also targets the entire joint and joint capsule, using traction to remove restrictions from movement and to stimulate lubrication, by gently pulling and moving the arms, legs, spine, and neck in a smooth motion through varying planes of movement, which is generally both stimulating and relaxing at the same time (Read: Not painful!).

In a regular/traditional stretching program, an individual will go through standard stretches, possibly paying extra attention to tight hips, sometimes pushing through some pain to get that final stretch. Sadly, this type of stretching is not effective and may even be causing more tightness and inflexibility. When you cause pain with stretching, your muscles respond to protect themselves, tightening up in a rebound type effect.

Conversely, In a Fascial Stretch Therapy session, the therapist will evaluate the client as a whole, looking for the individual’s muscular imbalances, as well as the source of those imbalances. Then while using breath to help with movement, The therapist first warm up the joints and muscles with undulating stretching to maximize blood flow. Then, the therapist will combine slow undulating movement, traction (gently pulling to create space in the joint) and modified PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation), synchronized with the breath, to stretch the entire body whilst following a logical anatomical order, to lengthen muscle, increase range of motion, and improve flexibility.

10 Benefits of Fascial Stretch Therapy

Increase Range of Motion
Muscular Balance and Symmetry
Improved Performance
Reduced Pain
Reduced Risk of Injury
Improved Posture
Improved Muscle Function
Improved Circulation
Decrease Compression and Impingement in the Joints.
Improved Energy