Til and Whitney speak with fascial researcher, anatomist, and manual therapy teacher Antonio Stecco MD PhD about his research in to fascial properties, pain, and the effects of hands-on work, in this audience-favorite episode from our archives, where it originally ran as Ep. 53.
Key Topics:
- Introduction to Dr. Antonio Stecco and his background in fascia research
- The role of the Stecco family in advancing fascia research
- Differences between superficial fascia and deep fascia
- The concept of fascial densification vs. fibrosis
- How manual therapy affects fascial lubrication and gliding
- The relationship between fascial stiffness/thickness and pain
- Mechanisms for long-lasting effects of fascial manipulation
- The importance of restoring proper biomechanics, not just treating pain
- The role of retinacula in proprioception and joint stability
- New MRI techniques for imaging fascial properties
- Molecular structure of hyaluronan in fascia
- Use of hyaluronidase injections for treating spasticity
- Resources for learning more about fascial manipulation
Get the full transcript at Til or Whitney's sites!
Resources discussed in this episode:
- Dr Stecco’s research and publications (NYU)
- FM app on the Apple Store and Google Play
- Dr Stecco’s site: fascialmanipulation.com
- Papers mentioned in the episode:
- Gerber et al., “A Systematic Comparison Between Subjects With No Pain and Pain Associated With Active Myofascial Trigger Points.”
- Langevin, Helene M. et al. “Reduced Thoracolumbar Fascia Shear Strain in Human Chronic Low Back Pain.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 12, no. 1 (December 2011): 203. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2474-12-203.
- Stecco, Antonio at al. “Ultrasonography in Myofascial Neck Pain: Randomized Clinical Trial for Diagnosis and Follow-Up.” Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy 36, no. 3 (April 2014): 243–53. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-013-1185-2.
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(The Thinking Practitioner Podcast is intended for professional practitioners of manual and movement therapies: bodywork, massage therapy, structural integration, chiropractic, myofascial and myotherapy, orthopedic, sports massage, physical therapy, osteopathy, yoga, strength and conditioning, and similar professions. It is not medical or treatment advice.)