What is MFR?
And other common questions
What is MFR?
Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds all of our muscles, bones, joints, organs, nerves, blood vessels and literally connects any one part of the body to the whole. Healthy fascia is fluid filled, smooth and flexible. John F. Barnes Myofascial Release (MFR) is bodywork developed by a Physical Therapist to address the fascial restrictions (where fascia adheres to itself or other structures) we all hold in our bodies from accidents, postural habits, trauma. These restrictions are often the hidden source of pain, dysfunction and immobility.
How is this different from PT or massage?
MFR releases the fascial restrictions we accumulate over a life-time and can transform long standing patterns of tension, pain and dysfunction. MFR is gentle and does not push past where the body is ready to go. Most massage techniques focus on relaxing muscles, which can feel good and relax the body but does not change the fascia. Some physical therapy and chiropractic techniques push past the body's barrier and force change only to cause a backlash in the fascial system.
How soon will I notice relief?
The body and fascia change at their own pace and MFR is patient, most people notice relief right away and that change grows over time in a non-linear way. When you make time to work with your body on the fascial level, the effects ripple out in unexpected and profound ways.
“Nothing has worked as well as this.”
“I had major spinal reconstructive surgery before starting MFR. Throughout my life, I’ve also experienced a lot of back pain for various reasons, and I desperately needed to have more relaxed back muscles so that I could rehabilitate my back more comfortably post-surgery, with less pain, as I rebuilt my strength and did lots of physical therapy.
After MFR, I feel more relaxed and can bend and twist specific muscles more easily. I can bend my leg upward, rest my foot on my opposite knee, and tie my shoe more easily than ever before in my entire life!
I didn’t know what to expect with MFR and I was pleasantly surprised as I’ve tried other forms of therapy like massage, acupuncture, tens units, etc., and nothing has worked as well as this.”
- Jean Thomas
What kind of conditions/symptoms does this treat?
MFR can help you heal:
Back pain, neck pain, disc problems
Headaches, migraines and jaw pain
Pelvic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction and women’s health issues
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Sports Injuries, sciatica, carpal tunnel
Adhesions and painful scars
Neurological dysfunction
Myofascial Pain syndrome
What if my complaint isn’t on this list ?
MFR is a safe way to address pain and dysfunction, to improve mobility and support your return to the activities that matter most to you. Treatment is always individualized and your concerns, goals and needs are central to our work together.
How much does treatment cost?
$150 per session for one hour MFR treatment
$130 per session for prenatal/postpartum clients
Pay by cash, check made out to Open Hands, or Zelle to (415)306-3227
What happens when I click one of the ‘Book Now’ buttons?
You will be taken to a scheduling page where you can select the type of session, Initial Appointment or Follow-up, MFR or Prenatal/postnatal MFR and a time that works for you. Acuity (the scheduling program) will ask for your contact information so that I can email you intake paperwork before your initial session.
I have another question that isn’t answered here
Feel free to contact me (Siri) directly at (415) 306-3227 by call or text.
Questions answered and ready to experience your first personalized MFR treatment plan?
