Fascia is very rich in proprioceptive nerve endings so by stimulating these it may reduce nociceptive pain signals. This positive stimulation can be done via manual therapy and also through exercises to help develop proprioception, such as balancing movements. Myofascial Release (MFR) therapy works gently with the sensory mechanoreceptors in fascia – some like compression, some like stretch, some like vibration. The techniques that seem to work best are those which affect the whole body such as arm and leg pulls, cranial work, cross hand releases, deep and slow stretches and waiting for the fascia to mobilise and ‘melt’. Because it is gentle and works with the body, not against it, it is not perceived by the body as a threat which could further stimulate the nervous system.

There is evidence that MFR is a key tool in treating chronic pain disorders such as fibromyalgia.

Myofascial work is starting to become more popular – although by no means a mainstream treatment sadly – largely thanks to recent advances in the understanding of the role fascia plays in sensing and transferring sensory input. The fascial net is the richest and most highly refined sensory organ in the human body. It has recently been hypothesized that there are over 250 million nerve endings in the human fascial system!

Contact me if you would like more information about MFR for your specific health needs.

BetterU is delighted to offer Deep Oscillation Therapy (DOT) as an adjunct to standard massage and scar therapy.

TMJ Therapy® was developed by Tracey Kiernan of Blend Therapy Training. Combining over 40 years of experience as a dental nurse and clinical massage practitioner the TMJ Therapy® speTMJ Therapy® was developed by Tracey Kiernan of Blend Therapy Training. Combining over 40 years of experience as a dental nurse and clinical massage practitioner the TMJ Therapy® specialised protocol was designed to relieve symptoms of TemporoMandibular Joint Dysfunction helping people suffering with this painful and debilitating condition. Sarah is a TMJ 1 practioner.

The soft tissue approach uses an array of light touch techniques including Myofascial release, specific stretches, muscle energy techniques and gentle massage of the affected tissues in the head and neck to relieve symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. This will often be done in conjunction with a whole-body postural assessment.

TMJ dysfunction often happens as a result of combined factors including continuous gum chewing, nail biting, tooth grinding (bruxism), and clenching habits. Whether pain is coming from a physical problem with the disc or soft tissue around the joint pain can be reduced and jaw function improved with gentle and targeted trigger point work.

Where you see the official yellow TMJ button logo you know that a practitioner has completed training with Tracey in this protocol. For more information on the protocol please see the website www.tmjtherapyuk.co.uk

Symptoms

A dull aching feeling in the jaw and surrounding area, including the ears, is often a key symptom of TMJ dysfunction. The pain is sometimes intermittent although some people may have no pain but still report problems using their jaws.

Other symptoms may include:

• Locking of the jaw or being unable to comfortably open and close the mouth

• Clicking, popping or grating sounds in the jaw joint

• Headaches which often refer to the temple or around the ear

• Neck, jaw, face, shoulder and back aches and pains

• Vision problems

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear), ear pain, decreased hearing or dizziness