Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/77400
STAY TUNED FOR A MARCH WEBINAR WITH TIL LUCHAU ON ANKLE ISSUES. VISIT ABMP.COM FOR DETAILS. To work with the plantar fascia, we use the middle knuckles of a soft fist (Image 6). As in the Gastrocnemius Technique, start with superficial layers, releasing first the skin, then the subcutaneous layers, and then the plantar fascia. Use active or passive toe extension to move the tissue layers under your touch. Be sensitive, thorough, and slow—remember, you're working with your client's nervous system, as well as the connective tissue, so be sure to allow time to breathe, release, and relax into the work. In the next installment, our focus will be the second type of dorsiflexion restriction, a deeper fixation of the tibia and fibula around the talus. The techniques covered in this article will serve as ideal preparation for the deeper work I'll describe in Part 2. Trainings.com faculty, which offers distance learning and in-person seminars throughout the United States and abroad. He is also a Certified Advanced Rolfer and teaches for the Rolf Institute. Contact him via info@ advanced-trainings.com and Advanced- Trainings.com's Facebook page. Til Luchau is a member of the Advanced- The Plantar Fascia Technique combines the soft fist with active or passive toe extension. In plantar fasciitis, avoid direct pressure on the most tender areas so as not to further aggravate the inflammation. Instead, lengthen and release the tissue distal to the inflamed points. Image courtesy Advanced-Trainings.com. NOTES 1. The contributing causes of both types of restrictions can include soft-tissue shortening, hardening, or scarring from overuse, postural habit, surgery, or injury, as well as from neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy. The contractures from these conditions will usually respond well to the work presented in these articles. Restrictions from joint abnormalities or bone spurs are also possible, and although the work described here may be helpful, additional measures and care by other professionals is usually indicated. 2. Sometimes clients will report a straining or cramping in the front of the shin, instead of a stretching in back or jamming sensation in front. If they seem to be referring to the tibialis anterior area, this is usually related to a Type 2 restriction. If the more lateral peroneals seem to be the source of the sensation, those will usually respond to direct work at the site of discomfort, as the peroneals themselves can contribute to limited dorsiflexion (see Image 5). The plantar fascia is a broad layer of tough connective tissue covering the sole of the foot. Within it are bands of mostly longitudinal fibers (the plantar aponeuroses, in salmon). The proximal end of the plantar fascia lies deep to the thick calcaneal fat pad (transparent). Image courtesy Primal Pictures. Used with Permission. earn CE hours at your convenience: abmp's online education center, www.abmp.com 115