28/07/2024
The objective of a myofascial release practitioner (whether it be a PT or LMT) is to hopefully prevent injuries or surgeries.
In some cases, surgeries are necessary, as in Mary’s case. Mary had arthritis in her knees before we met 10 years ago. It was inevitable that she would have to have knee replacement surgery, but our goal was to help Mary function well with minimal pain until she had no choice but to have knee surgery.
What role did regular MFR and medical exercises help her prepare for surgery?
MFR prepared the tissue pre surgery, but keeping the surrounding connective tissue fluid and moving. Typically, one who has had arthritis for years had compensated for their pain and lack of mobility. Due to the need to compensate, the fascia in the body, thickens over time and becomes rigid. By applying gentle MFR compression and stretching throughout the body the practitioner is able to minimize pain and expedite healing post-surgery.
I remember the surgeon telling Mary that her arthritis was so bad and had been that way for possibly 20 years, he flet that she may never return to having full range of motion (ROM).
I thought, “her tissue is soft and fluid because of receiving regular MFR and she will have full ROM.’
The day after surgery, the surgeon and hospital PT were amazed that Mary had almost full ROM at extension and better than average ROM of flexion.
Her pre surgery plan was lot of MFR and a workout focusing on core training, hip strength, balance and coordination.
As soon as Mary came home from surgery, I started MFR sessions two times a day.
In less than a week, Mary improved her ROM on her flexion by leaps and bounds. IN fact, she transitioned from her walker to being able to walk with a cane in less than a week. Her swelling was minimal.
MFR helps by preparing the tissue to be in their best condition before surgery, allowing the most efficient healing time. Post surgery, MFR helps with inflammation and expedites healing allowing patients to experience much less pain as well as reducing the patient’s time on pain medications that can, in some cases, lead to addiction.
Mary was off her pain meds within 3 days post-surgery!
Post surgery MFR helps keep the muscles and tissue to remain fluid, preventing new scar tissue from forming making the knee less flexible. This process leads to faster recovery for most patients.
I strongly recommend anyone having surgery, (not just joint replacement surgery) to consider being treated by a well-trained John Barnes MFR practitioner before surgery.
JBMFR is a form of body gently bodywork, but not anything like traditional massage.
NOTE: Post-surgery MFR is just as important but be sure your practitioner is well trained in the John Barnes approach and has experience in working with people who have had surgeries.
And I recommend working with a practitioner that is either a PT or a trained medical exercises fitness coach once you have completed your required PT.
If you are in Northern Virginia, and would like to know more about MFR, please message me or text me for a free 30-minute phone consultation. to schedule an appointment please text
703-919-3989. Please leave your name, why you are calling, and the best time to reach out to you. I will return all calls within 24 hours.
Linda Nedilsky,
LMT,
Certified Medical Personal Trainer and JBMFR practitioner.
Over 20 years of experience and well over 800 hours of training
My passion has always been centered around helping others return to a better quality of life without pain or discomfort.
