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!

• Whitney Lowe’s site: AcademyOfClinicalMassage.com
• Til Luchau’s site: Advanced-Trainings.com

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.)