The Feel

What is the most important aspect of being a successful myofascial release therapist? To me, it is developing the "feel". But what is the feel?

From the first technique that I introduce to therapists at my seminars, I begin to coach them into moving into the body in a curious fashion. Gently apply pressure until they reach a barrier, then patiently begin to "look around". What is it that they feel? Do they feel a leathery-like area, or a cord of tightness? Once they sense an area such as this, I ask them to seek feedback from their patient; what do they feel. Very often the therapist-acting-as-patient will report back that they are having their pain, or familiar symptom, reproduced. It is this feedback loop of validation that brings the therapist into closer awareness of where the issue lies.

Once the therapist has connected with the feel of their patient's pain, treatment is quite easy: One just needs to remain at that barrier, allowing the restriction to reduce. Reduction in pain typically follows. That is the crux of my teachings; one on one personal instruction on how to develop "The Feel". Of course, there are many, many techniques that are taught as a means to that end.

For, Now,

Walt Fritz, PT