About MFR | Fort Wayne MFR

What is JFB MFR?

John F. Barnes Myofascial Release

This is a highly effective whole body manual therapy modality that promotes holistic healing through releasing fascial restrictions. The results can be pain relief, the overcoming of physical holding patterns, and the restoration of range of motion and function. The John Barnes method is gentle and intuitive while producing long-lasting results.

Who is it for?

This method can be healing and good for anyone, and has very few contraindications (medical reasons not to do it).

Some conditions that MFR is especially affective with include:
--Complex pain issues that have not responded to other treatment
--Chronic pain that responds minimally to other treatments (or even chronic pain that does respond to other treatments)
--Physical Trauma: from a fall or a car crash
--Scarring: from surgery or injury
--Repetitive stress injuries: From heavy lifting or poor posture
--Emotional Trauma: our bodies hold on to painful experiences in ways that talk therapy may not be able to reach
--Neck and back pain
--Fibromyalgia
--Posture issues
--Stress disorders
--Sleep problems
--Chronic restrictions, example: hip, shoulder
--Frozen shoulder
--Loss of flexibility or range of motion

--TMJ
And more!--Please ask us if your condition is something that might respond well to MFR!

What should I expect during my session?

For your session, please do not apply lotions or oils before-hand, and if possible avoid make-up.
The session may begin with a quick posture assessment to understand how your body wants to stand naturally, and where you may be out of alignment. For this and for the entire treatment, please wear a bra (women), and either loose-fitting shorts or underwear that you are comfortable in.
MFR treatment does not always follow a linear pattern. Based on your areas of pain, discomfort, or restriction, Anna will choose an area to start, and then move around based on how your body responds. One thing Anna will look for is areas where the skin flushes. As one fascial restriction is released, the connected fascia causes a different area to flush. Also, Anna will ask if you are feeling sensation anywhere in your body. This could be heat, cold/chills, tingling, buzzing, discomfort, or pain. All of these things can indicate another fascial restriction.
Some MFR techniques are more intimate than what might be used in a traditional massage. Please let Anna know either ahead of time or in the moment if you are ever uncomfortable with anything she does. Do not worry about being polite--your comfort is our top concern, and you can go back to using manners after the massage! Anna will tell you what she is about to do before doing anything that might cause emotional discomfort. (For example: "I'm going to place my hand on your sternum now.") MFR does need to be performed on skin for best results. With permission, Anna may need to slide her hand under your clothing. This will be done in a therapeutic manner with communication, and to your comfort level.

What does myofascial pain feel like?

Common symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome include:
--An aching pain that feels like its coming from deep inside the muscle
--Persistent pain
--Worsening pain
--Muscle knots that are sensitive to the touch
--Trouble sleeping due to pain/discomfort in muscles

I can't decide between MFR and massage!

Anna is going to be shifting her career towards exclusively performing MFR, because of her excitement about the possibilities MFR offers. However, MFR does not entirely replace massage. Massage will always feel good, support mental health, and provide relaxation. If your goal is healing and deep structural changes, choose MFR. If you want to feel good, if you love massage, and if you want to relax, massage is always a good and healthful option.

I like deep tissue! Is this like deep tissue?

Not necessarily--but keep reading!

Deep tissue can certainly feel really good, but it is not always what your body needs. For each MFR hold, Anna begins with very light pressure. If you love a deep tissue massage, you may be initially disappointed. However, the results can be more long-lasting and effective. As the hold continues, Anna will gradually increase the pressure. It may or may not end up feeling very deep, but your body is still being changed on the fascial level. Just like a deep tissue massage, you may be sore the next day. And it is always important to drink extra water!

Scarring

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort or restriction related to scarring, please let Anna know, and she can work on any scar-related issues you may be having.

The Healing Crisis

JFB MFR is never injurious.

It is normal, but not always necessary or predictable, to feel worse before feeling better. There is a wide range of experiences you can feel as your body heals. All are normal and specific to each individual. Don't give up if you feel worse after one session, or notice little improvement. Healing looks different for everyone, and is not linear. During the healing crisis drink lots of water, take deep breaths, spend time in nature, and be gentle with yourself. Anna highly encourages client's to keep going through at least 3 sessions before deciding that MFR is not for them. Though many people feel good right away, can take that long to begin to notice positive changes.

The Emotional Aspect of MFR

When receiving MFR, it is normal to experience intense emotions, as well as emotional healing, as memories of traumatic events are stored in the tissue. When experiencing physical or emotional pain during a session, a few tips will help with the healing process:
1. Allow yourself to feel the pain. Let yourself experience it so that your body can let go of it. You are in a safe place. Don't hold back tears or sighs or vocalizations.
2. Understand that any emotion or sensation is normal. Allow your body to express pain in whatever way you are drawn to. It is normal and healing to cry or make sound.
3. You are welcome to talk about your experiences, or not--whatever feels most healing.
4. During the session, it can be helpful to let yourself enter that calm, meditative state. Don't try to solve "feeling things" with "thinking things". You don't have to analyze what is happening, just experience it. If you have questions, you are welcome to send Anna an email at fortwaynemfr@gmail.com. She will try to respond in a timely manner to all questions.