Myofascial Decompression

Myofascial Decompression (MFD) is the use of cups to decrease fascial restrictions, decrease muscle guarding and tension, improve the slide and glide of soft tissues, improve movement efficiency, and retrain the mind-body connection. This is achieved through the combination of decompression with the cups and accompanying dynamic movement by the recipient while the cups are applied.

This is not your traditional cupping. Although there are both passive and active techniques, MFD focuses on movement with specific exercises to target mobility, muscle activation and motor control. With skilled application and the appropriate neuromuscular re-education, through this movement we retrain the nervous system.

MFD can be effective for:

  • Hypertonic muscles (increased muscle tension, overactive muscles) and Trigger Points

  • Neural entrapments, restrictions, compression (such as thoracic outlet syndrome, carpal tunnel, sciatica)

  • Tendinopathies

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • IT band syndrome

  • Patellafemoral syndrome

  • Lateral epicondylitis

  • Headaches that are cervical in origin

  • Limitations in spinal motion due to fascial and soft tissue restrictions

  • Shoulder impingement

  • Soft tissue restrictions

  • Scar tissue mobilization

  • Post exertion muscle cramping

  • Muscle recovery post exercise, training, competition

  • Improving flexibility - for example: hamstrings, quadriceps and hip flexors, paraspinals, calves, upper shoulder/cervical region

  • Consider when other manual therapies have not worked or have limited effectiveness

  • Consider when movement dysfunctions have been unresponsive to other interventions

MFD is not appropriate for everyone, there are contraindications that will be discussed and reviewed prior to use.

“MFD with Anne has reduced my nerve pain.”

I have had extreme nerve pain in my arms and hands for years from working as a welder. After three surgeries and a year of general physical therapy, I had to change careers due to the pain. Myofascial decompression therapy with Anne has been the only thing that has given me noticeable relief. I am not cured but I can do more of what I love with significantly less pain and increased mobility after only five sessions. 

— Fisher B., 26

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Contact Therapeutic Fitness to discuss your condition, if MFD is appropriate for you, and for fee structure.