Fascial Stretching (FST)®
The Fascial Stretching Practitioner utilizes a unique, proprietary brand of manual stretching, compression, and oscillation to modulate the tension of fascial tissues where indicated. That is, when excessive, FST reduces tension and, when deficient, FST increases tension. Objective measurements like ROM (range of motion) full body functional movements, strength, balance, speed, power, HRV (heart rate variability), BP (blood pressure), tissue specific frequency and pain scores among other tests have all been shown to improve, often dramatically, after a FST session. Improvements in sleep, digestion, mood, mental alertness and function, attitude, and other factors have been attributed to FST by clients and patients.
Recognizing the crucial role that the fascial system plays in the human body, mind, emotions, and spirit, Frederick Stretch Therapy specializes in evaluating and assessing the individual before treating the person with assisted stretching alone or combined with other techniques and modalities. Unlike standardized, cookie-cutter approaches utilizing the same number and type of stretches for all clients, FST is personalized such that each person is analyzed and treated specific to their needs and goals (Frederick, 2017)
TECHNIQUES THAT MAKES FST DIFFERENT
WHAT MAKES FST® DIFFERENT?
FST® -The Gold Standard in Stretching
Traditionally stretching is performed with the goal of deforming the tissue with enough force to produce a lengthening effect, in order to gain more linear range of motion. The stretch is commonly held at a point of tissue resistance coincident with some discomfort for 15-30 or more seconds and repeated 2-3 times per isolated muscle. People may initially feel this as being productive, but eventually will have limited results, or even incur a new injury.
One of the reasons for this failure is the model used in traditional stretching is based on biomechanics. Applying these principles of engineering, materials science, and classical mechanics to the human body, treats it as if it was made and functioned like a machine and not the elegantly designed 4D dynamic organism that it is.
The science and ongoing research of our connective tissue system (commonly called the fascial system) has produced new models of anatomy and physiology that are shifting old paradigms not only in stretching but in many fields like physical medicine and manual therapy. Proving that a muscle cannot lengthen, strengthen, or functionally do anything in isolation is only one of many discoveries that have led to great advances in the effectiveness of fascial stretching and other therapies.
The Frederick Stretch Therapy technique leans into the shifting paradigms and treats the whole person, not just a body part. It is pain-free and uses constant circulatory, gently oscillating movements of traction and stabilization to decompress joints and expand space in the soft tissues. Beyond gaining range of motion where needed, one experiences vastly improved kinesthesia (ability to move with ease) and proprioception (sense of one’s posture both when still and in movement). An overall feeling of wellbeing, confidence, and ease with oneself after receiving FST is the capstone to personal and professional transformation.
WHAT IS FASCIA (FASH-AH)?
Fascia is the connective tissue system of the body that penetrates through and wraps around muscles, nerves, organs, and just about everything else in your body. That’s why FST positively impacts your body, mind and spirit!