Fascial stretches for hips: The Benefits of Fascial Stretch Therapy
Are you finding that your regular massages and stretches aren’t giving you the desired benefits for your hip stiffness and discomfort? Facial stretches specifically for the hip area may help.
How can I relieve tightness around my hips?
Traditionally, passive and active stretching exercises are prescribed to relieve perceived tightness. Adding strengthening exercises to your routine may improve muscle tone and create a more resilient muscle that can withstand higher training loads and results in less pain and tightness in the hip area. But what if exercise alone doesn’t help?
What is Fascial Stretch Therapy™?
Fascia or Facial Stretch Therapy™ (FST) is a type of manual therapy that focuses on the stretching and mobilization of the connective tissue known as fascia. Fascia is a densely woven web of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, nerves, and joints throughout the body. It plays a crucial role in providing support and protection to these structures. It is performed by trained professionals and is covered by most extended health benefit plans.
What is the purpose of Fascial Stretch Therapy™?
Fascial Stretch Therapy™ is designed to target and release tension between the fascia and surrounding soft tissues, thereby improving flexibility, mobility, and overall function of the body. Unlike traditional static stretching, FST involves active and dynamic stretching techniques that are performed by a trained practitioner.
Here are some key aspects of Fascial Stretch Therapy™:
Assisted Stretching: FST is typically performed with a client lying on a treatment table. The practitioner uses a series of gentle, assisted stretching movements to target specific areas of the body. These stretches are designed to elongate the fascia and improve its flexibility.
Multi-Planar Approach: FST involves stretching the fascia in multiple planes of movement (such as twisting, bending, and spiraling motions), which helps to address restrictions and imbalances that may be present within the fascial network.
Pain-Free Technique: Fascial Stretch Therapy aims to be pain-free and is customized to the individual's comfort level. The practitioner uses careful and controlled movements to gradually improve range of motion without causing discomfort.
What are the benefits of Fascial Stretch Therapy?
There are many benefits to Fascial Stretch TherapyTM. FST is a unique system of assisted table-based stretching performed by a registered massage therapist to help achieve these results:
Improved Flexibility: FST can help increase the elasticity and flexibility of the fascia, leading to improved range of motion.
Pain Relief: By releasing tension and tightness in the fascia, FST can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with musculoskeletal conditions.
Enhanced Performance: Athletes and active individuals use FST to optimize muscle function, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance overall performance.
Postural Correction: FST can contribute to better posture by addressing fascial restrictions that may pull the body out of alignment.
Who could benefit from FST?
Fascial Stretch TherapyTM can be a great stand alone treatment or can be an awesome compliment to your regular massage, physio and chiro treatments.
FST is commonly used to address musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, hip pain, tightness, and joint stiffness.
Individuals experiencing tightness or stiffness in the hip/low back region that is not relieved by regular stretches or massage treatments
Individuals recovering from injuries or surgery to regain mobility and function
Used in sports rehabilitation to support athletes in recovering from strains, sprains, or overuse injuries
When would someone seek FST vs massage?
Someone should book an FST appointment/assessment if they’ve had a few massage treatments but are still experiencing widespread tension. Sometimes a different approach is needed to achieve similar results.
At 416 Physio, Fascial Stretch Therapy™ can be combined with traditional registered massage therapy, or can be offered independently to help improve mobility, reduce pain and optimize function within your body.
Why visit 416 Physio for Fascial Stretch Therapy™ for the hips?
At 416 Physio, Fascial Stretch Therapy™ is provided by our highly trained and experienced registered massage therapists. Depending on your goals and needs, you have the option to combine FST and massage therapy to help you achieve the best results. Your massage therapist can help answer any questions and provide guidance on what technique may be most helpful.
Is Fascial Stretch Therapy™ covered under my insurance plan?
Yes, Facial Stretch Therapy™ is covered by most extended health benefit plans. FST is offered by our registered massage therapists, therefore, it will be billed under massage therapy. At 416 Physio, we offer direct billing to most insurance companies to help make the process easier for you. It’s always best to check your insurance provider to see what’s included and if direct billing is permitted.
Contact us today to book your appointment with our Fascial Stretch TherapistTM. Do you have further questions? Take a look at our FST FAQ page!
