A new paradigm in anatomy and manual therapy.

Fascial Manipulation is a manual therapy that has been developed by Luigi Stecco, an Italian physiotherapist. Focusing on the fascia, it considers the myofascial system as a three-dimensional continuum.

 

This method presents a complete biomechanical model that assists in deciphering the role of fascia in musculoskeletal disorders. In recent years, Prof. Carla Stecco MD and Dr. Antonio Stecco MD have carried out extensive research into the anatomy and histology of the fascia via dissection of unembalmed cadavers in Italy and France. These dissections have provided new histological and anatomical data including the existence of myotendinous expansions between segments, the multi-layer structure of the deep fascia and the abundant innervation of the tissue by mechanoreceptors and free nerve endings.

 

The mainstay of the manual method developed by L. Stecco lies in the identification of specific, localised areas of the fascia in connection with specifically limited movements. Once a limited or painful movement is identified, then a specific point on the fascia is implicated and, through the appropriate manipulation of this precise part of the fascia, movement can be restored.