Tag: fascial stretch therapy

20 ways Fascial Stretch Therapy (FST) is different from Assisted Stretching

Posted on by Lexie

Fascial Stretch Therapy is the focus of Healix in both Grand Rapids, MI and Naples, FL however we do have Massage and Thai Flex Fusion at both locations as well!

  1. FST is a system of stretching that focuses on the fascia, a type of connective tissue in the body, whereas assisted stretching generally focuses on muscle tissue.
  2. FST uses gentle, flowing movements to stretch the fascia, while assisted stretching often involves more static holds and aggressive stretching.
  3. FST is typically performed by a certified therapist or practitioner, whereas assisted stretching can be performed by anyone, including a friend or personal trainer.
  4. FST is typically performed on a massage table, while assisted stretching can be done on the floor or any flat surface.
  5. FST involves the use of specialized straps and tables to aid in stretching the fascia, while assisted stretching generally relies on manual manipulation.
  6. FST is often done in a slow, deliberate manner to allow the fascia to release gradually, while assisted stretching may involve more rapid movements.
  7. FST often involves stretching multiple areas of the body simultaneously, while assisted stretching generally focuses on one area at a time.
  8. FST can be used to improve mobility and range of motion, while assisted stretching is often used to alleviate muscle tightness and tension.
  9. FST can help to reduce pain and inflammation, while assisted stretching may not have as significant an impact on these issues.
  10. FST can help to improve athletic performance by increasing flexibility and mobility, while assisted stretching may not have as much impact on performance.
  11. FST can be used to improve posture and alignment, while assisted stretching may not have as much impact on these issues.
  12. FST can be used to reduce stress and promote relaxation, while assisted stretching may not have as significant an impact on these issues.
  13. FST can help to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, while assisted stretching may not have as much impact on these issues.
  14. FST is often used in conjunction with other therapies, such as massage and chiropractic care, while assisted stretching is often used as a standalone therapy.
  15. FST is often customized to the specific needs of the individual, while assisted stretching may be more general in nature.
  16. FST can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, injury, and neurological disorders, while assisted stretching may have more limited applications.
  17. FST can be performed on individuals of all ages and fitness levels, while assisted stretching may not be appropriate for everyone.
  18. FST requires specialized training and certification, while assisted stretching does not.
  19. FST typically involves longer sessions than assisted stretching, which may be shorter in duration.
  20. FST is often more expensive than assisted stretching due to the specialized training and equipment required.

What is Fascial Stretch Therapy?

Posted on by emily
Assisted Stretch

While you are likely familiar with the idea of stretching to improve flexibility, you may not have heard of fascial stretch therapy (FST) and how it can benefit you by providing better long-term flexibility and mobility. In this blog post, you’ll learn:

  • What fascial stretch therapy is
  • The potential benefits of stretching your fascia

Your fascia is what keeps your body connected. It is the collagen-rich tissue that holds together everything including individual joints, muscles, and organs. The fascia can benefit from stretching. This can be true for both active people and less-active individuals who simply want to maintain a good range of motion. Taking advantage of FST services in Grand Rapids, MI to assist you in maintaining fascia health can come with a long list of benefits.

What is Fascial Stretch Therapy

Modern FST services are often heavily based on a book written by Ann Fredrick, a flexibility specialist who originally used fascial stretching to train Olympic athletes on the men’s wrestling team. Fascial stretch therapy is a little different from the more traditional stretching you may be used to. Rather than doing the stretches yourself, a therapist assists you in the movements. Generally, you will arrive wearing comfortable clothing and lie on a table that is similar to a massage table while the therapist manually moves your body through the stretches. The therapist may also ask you to breathe in and out to fit with the movements.

The Benefits of Stretching and Fascial Stretch Therapy

Most FST services focus heavily on helping you develop healthier joints through a focus on the joint capsules in your body as well as the fascia as a whole. The goal of this is to relieve pressure and create a better range of movement throughout your joints, which can go a long way to preventing injury and helping you develop better stability throughout your body.

Stretching the fascia can ease the many different strains your body is under every day. Whether it be sitting for long periods or participating in sports, almost everybody experiences some form of repeated posture or motion that can cause pressure on the joints and create tight areas in the fascia. In addition to relieving pressure fascial stretching can also:

  • Assist with weight loss
  • Allow you to have naturally better posture
  • Give you access to increased flexibility
  • Prevent you from losing range of motion over time

Fascial stretch therapy can be extremely effective and you shouldn’t be surprised if you notice some improvements following your first session. It can also be incredibly relaxing and a great way to relieve the physical stress you have built up over time. Best of all, it is a convenient service that is available in Grand Rapids, MI.

Fascial Stretch Therapy in Michigan

The fascia is what holds your body together and benefits from a little extra care. With its many potential health benefits, fascial stretching is a great place to start for people to improve their overall wellness or performance. We offer fascial stretch therapy services in Grand Rapids, Michigan and soon in Naples, Florida. We believe everybody has the potential to develop greater health and wellbeing. If you think fascial stretch therapy may be right for you, contact us through this form or by clicking the contact tab on our website to get started.

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