Stecco Method Fascial Manipulation®

What is a Fascial System?
  
Fascial system is a sub system of connective tissues which functionally integrates all the other systems in the body due to its 3D functional architecture. Because of its strategical connections with all other structures of the body and extremely rich innervation, the fascial system can be considered as an important functional support for the nervous system which is vital for optimal movement function and optimal internal organ function both. To support the nervous system and functionally integrate all the other systems in the body the architecture of the fascial system should be in optimal condition.  

Two basic components of fascial system’s architecture:
  
1. The fibrous components as micro/macro layers of collagen-based structures such as membranous structures that surround every single muscle, nerve, vein, organ etc. and as sheaths that surround the group of muscles, nerves, veins, organs etc. creating connections between these structures even from different segments. (Multi directional force transmission) 

2. The loose connective tissue component in between these layers guarantees the gliding for a non-irritating relationship between these structures. Optimal quality of loose connective tissue’s ability to act as a perfect lubricant is strongly related to the optimal state of Hyaluronan and the water content within. 

What is Densification? 

Hyaluronan, as the chief element in the loose connective tissue, can become aggregated due to immobility, overuse, movement compensations and adaptations after traumas, surgeries etc. (Also aging, hormonal changes, pH changes, systemic disorders should be considered about alterations of Hyaluronan.) The aggregation of hyaluronan is called “Densification”. These densifications can alter the gliding ability between the layers of fibrous components of the fascial system which may lead to local or global dysfunctions, pain and stiffness depending on the individual’s lifestyle and medical history. But luckily densifications are reversible with the approach of Fascial Manipulation® which has a target of restoring the function of loose connective tissue and the biomechanics of the body instead of just managing the pain. Quicker, comprehensive and long-term results can be achieved when the densifications are detected and resolved before they cause fibrotic anatomical changes in the fibrous components of the fascial system. 

What is Fascial Manipulation®- Stecco Method?

Fascial Manipulation® is an effective soft tissue manual therapy method with certain guidelines that approach the patients individually and globally, especially in the field of myofascial pain and dysfunction, locomotor problems as well as internal dysfunctions. This method was found and has been developed by Italian physiotherapist Luigi Stecco with the scientific support of his daughter Dr. Carla Stecco and his son Dr. Antonio Stecco.  Fascial Manipulation® Method does not focus on the symptoms or just the area of pain or discomfort. Most of the time myofascial pain and dysfunction can be caused by a previous problem in different areas of the body. The following local or global compensations can cause altered perception of body position/movement, motor coordination and distribution of load on myofascial structures and joints. This may create injury risk, pain and local or global dysfunctions. 

A Stecco Fascial Manipulation® Specialist pays full attention to the detailed information about the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, previous injuries, traumas, surgeries, fractures, and internal dysfunctions, to address the main reason or reasons of the current pain or dysfunction. Creating a logical hypothesis, choosing the segments to work on and most importantly detecting the most densified and functionally related anatomical areas, are the crucial steps to successful sessions in Fascial Manipulation®.  Applying deep friction on these exact anatomical areas of densifications with proper positioning, velocity and depth helps to improve the gliding ability of the loose connective tissue component, allowing neighboring structures to function without irritating each other and causing unwanted compensations. The individualized precision of this method makes it possible to restore the biomechanics of the fascial system, to provide realistic long-lasting results and even to prevent further injuries.   


COMMON CONDITIONS TREATED WITH STECCO FASCIAL MANIPULATION:  

Headaches/migraines 
Neck and back pain
Nerve pain
Intercostal pain
Shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, hand pain 
Hip, knee, ankle, foot/heel pain
TMJ/Jaw pain and dysfunction
Frozen shoulder
Rotator cuff injury
Pre and Post Total Knee and Hip Replacements 
Post Surgical pain or restricted mobility
Internal Dysfunctions such as difficulty swallowing, gastritis, constipation, bloating, dysmenorrhea