Massage Therapy Journal Spring 2025

Spring 2025 • 63

Some people describe this technique as an unwinding of the tissue. Gentle pressures are generally used with this type of massage. Potential Contraindications or Cautions to Using

Indirect Fascial Techniques • Local bacterial infections • Bruises • Local skin diseases • Areas of decreased sensation • Fragile skin Indirect Fascial Techniques Include:

Fascial tension technique : This is typically a slow, gentle stretch of the tissue by sustaining a light to moderate pressure.

These techniques may be uncomfortable for the client, so staying in contact with them and asking for feedback is important.

Fascial tension technique Photo by Mark Hansen Photography

6. Reassess tissue for mobility. Skin rolling: The goal of this technique is to mobilize the superficial fascia over the deep facia. Steps for Skin Rolling 1. Assess tissue for mobility in different directions for bind. 2. Grasp the tissues between the fingers and the thumbs. Pick up as much tissue as possible, making sure it’s not painful for the client. 3. Roll the skin in as many ways toward the bind. 4. The skin can be rolled in different directions if desired. 5. Reassess the tissues for mobility. J stroke: This technique can be useful for mobilizing and softening fibrotic or scar tissue. Small strokes in a “J” shape to mobilize fascial adhesions. Steps for J Stroke 1. Assess tissue for mobility in different directions. 2. Pressure is applied with the palm, whole hand or fist in the direction of ease. 3. With a knuckle or a few fingers, apply force away from the direction of ease in a J shape. 4. Repeat 5 to 7 times. 5. Reassess tissue for changes in mobility. Indirect Fascial Techniques How-To and Contraindications Indirect fascial techniques are where the practitioner follows the direction of ease in the tissue rather than toward bind.

Learn . . .

Pain Headaches Fibromyalgia

John F. Barnes, PT International lecturer, author, and authority on Myofascial Release.

For a Full List of Seminar Dates & Locations MyofascialRelease.com or call 1-800-FASCIAL

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