MFRmail Newsletter
September 2012 
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Walt Fritz, PT
 
Walt has been a Myofascial Release practitioner since 1992 and has been teaching since 1995. His Foundations in Myofascial Release Seminars are presented in small group settings with highly individualized one-on-one attention. Join him for a "New Perspective" on Myofascial Release.
 
 
Quick Links
 

1 of 3: Walt Fritz Demonstrates A Myofascial Release Evaluation
1 of 3: Myofascial Release Evaluation
2 of 3: Walt Fritz Demonstrates A Myofascial Release Evaluation
2 of 3: 
Myofascial Release Evaluation
3 of 3: Walt Fritz Demonstrates Myofascial Release Evaluations and Treatments
3 of 3: 
Myofascial Release Evaluations and Treatments

Pelvic Landmark Palpation
Pelvic Landmark Palpation

Walt Fritz Demonstrates Myofascial Release: Cervical Thoracic Lift
Myofascial Release: Cervical Thoracic Lift
Walt Fritz Demonstrates Seated Shoulder, Chest and Arm Myofascial Release
Seated Shoulder, Chest and Arm Myofascial Release
Walt Fritz Demonstrates A Sample Session of Myofascial Release, What to Expect.
Sample Session of Myofascial Release, What to Expect.


WaltFritz: Pelvic Floor/Anterior Lumbar Myofascial Release and Fascial Restriction
Pelvic Floor/Anterior Lumbar Myofascial Release: Connecting with the Feel

Leveling the Landscape of the Thorax
Leveling the Landscape of the Thorax
Myomobilization with Myofascial Release for the Thigh
Myomobilization with Myofascial Release for the Thigh
Compressive Myofascial Release for the Foot
Compressive Myofascial Release for the Foot
Lumbar Lift
Lumbar Lift
Get Social!
 
 

 
Paradigm Shifts


Change and growth should be a regular part of any therapists vocabulary. I am in the process of learning a new language right now. For those of you whop follow me on the various social media, you are no doubt aware of some changes. From the first day of the first myofascial release seminar that I took 20-plus years ago, I knew what I was learning to do was invaluable. But what never quite sat right in my mind were the pseudoscience and New Age methods of explanations that were given to describe how MFR affects the tissues. After breaking free from that mindset, I set forth on a path to bring together as much research regarding fascia and myofascial release that I could, with the Myofascial Release Research Page the result. It is nice to see some copy cats out there finally adding research to their websites.

It took me a long time to realize what might be missing from this puzzle; the puzzle of explaining what happens under our hands. Fascia research has made great strides in better understanding the physical properties of fascia, but they are attempting to explain change in pain, etc, based solely on properties of fascia. But, what if it is not the fascia that is at play here; what if it is something more simple, one that already has an explanation.

Last month I took a seminar from Diane Jacobs, a Canadian Physiotherapist, who came up with the concept of DNM, or DermoNeuroModulation. Diane is a pretty smart woman, who has a pretty low opinion of myofascial release. I will not try to fully describe her thoughts or process here, but suffice it to say she makes a pretty good argument for why we can/should be using basic neuroscience to explain the changes that we see every day, instead of speaking as if the fascia had magical properties.

I've said some things over the past month which have riled up some of the MFR faithful and have caused others to puff their chest and claim "see how much research ther is on myofascial release!". There is a tremendous amount of MFR research, but take a close look at it. It essentially shows that MFR was sued in a large number of research projects with successful outcomes. Read this as "what we do with our hands works". But there is scant evidence that it is the FASCIA that is responsible for the changes. What I am advocating is not abandoning what we do with our hands, but to change what we think, in terms of how to explain this work.

Don't change what you do, change how you think.

I like this phrase. I was told by a friend that a certain person coined this phrase. When I ask him directly if it belonged to him, so I could give him credit, he coldly said "never, even use my name". Not exactly the warm fuzzy type. So, this phrase is now mine.  Think about it for a moment. We have great effectiveness with what we have been taught and what we have honed over the years; don't change this. But if we change how we view the body, looking at it from a more science-based approach of neuroscience, we will have a clearer understanding of its workings, but may also become even MORE effective. Why? Understanding the properties of the nervous system better will give us a new perspective on how to handle our patients. It leads us to an interactor model of treatment, rather than an operator model.

Change can be challenging and fun at the same time. Join me on this road to change. You can read and comment on my latest blog posts below.

I remember reading once that you have not mastered a new language until you begin to dream in that language (or maybe I dreamt that, I'm not sure). Either way, I have long realized that the "structuralist" mentality that I possess is a hard one to shake. What is a structuralist? One who sees pain/dysfunction [...]...�

 

OK, I did a lot more this summer than this, but there is one thing I want to tell you about. Why should you care what I did? Apparently you read my blog because I have something important to say. This one is real important, at least I think so. Many of you longtime readers [...]...�

I just recently posted two articles to the Research Page of the website (#299 and 300), that speak of the lack of reliability and accuracy in the palpation of pelvic landmarks, specifically the PSIS's. In my Foundations in Myofascial Release Seminars, I speak in depth about this problem and how practice makes perfect. While some [...]...�

 

(An Editorial) I took a big step this morning, at least a big one for me. I switched to an old fashioned double edged razor, the kind my dad used to use before Bic came out with their early disposable razors. I've used various types and styles of disposable type razors and cartridge blades all [...]...�

 

I have spent a good part of the last two weekends sanding drywall. It is thankless and dirty job, but ultimately a satisfying one for me. Our kitchen remodel is nearly complete and I've managed to keep from breathing in too much of the dust! For those of you who've never done so, sanding drywall [...]...�

I have recently added a few new locations to the schedule and am currently in the process of confirming a few more...sign up for the MFRmail Newsletter to keep informed of all upcoming Foundations in Myofascial Release Seminars. Foundations I Lafayette, Indiana: June 22-24, 2012 (space still available) Rochester, NY: September 14-16, 2012 San Diego, [...]...�

 

I am a carnivore. I have come to terms with this. I was a vegetarian for a number of years, but drifted back to what was more comfortable. I know what I'm eating, even though the named cut of meat little resembles it's anatomical name. A strip steak or ribeye give one little clue as [...]...�

 

Don Quixote,  Miguel de Cervantes' character and book of the same name, threatened to "tilt at windmills" that he believed were enemies. The term "tilting at windmills" often refers to describe confrontations where adversaries are incorrectly perceived (1). Incorrect perceptions in Myofascial Release are often the result of incomplete (or lack of) evaluation prior to [...]...�


   
Curiosity and the Magic Wand

I believe curiosity is one of the strongest assets that make a therapist successful. But, curiosity on the part of my patients can reap even bigger outcomes. I have an acquaintance who is a mental health therapist. In her office she keeps a toy magic wand. Among others things, she will often give it to [...]...�


A funny thing happens when you use a modality long enough; technique seems less important. In the beginning, the techniques were everything. How many classes could I take and how many new techniques could I learn? Of course there were plenty of new seminars to fill my needs, each promising more and more. But after [...]...�


1.6% That is the percentage of people who have a perfectly straight spine; one with no lateral deviation whatsoever. Those were the findings of Dr. William P. Bunnell, Professor and Chairperson, Loma Linda University Medical Center, who in 1992 published his paper; Outcome of Spinal Screening. The study looked at 1000 physically mature high school [...]...�

 
Quick News:
New Video, CE Hours for the Myofascial Mentoring Program, and New Seminar Locations


Hi Everyone!

I just recently added a good number of research articles to the Research Page on the website. There were two articles that show exactly why research has meaning to all of us. The two articles discuss the lack of validity, reliability, and accuracy of locating the PSIS's. Those of you whom follow me know that I am a stickler for a thorough evaluation, for without one you are treating without a true plan. To address the concerns of these articles, I made a quick video addressing these concerns. You can find the video on my blog.


Pelvic Landmark Palpation
Pelvic Landmark Palpation

Now that I've got the hang of video making, are there any topics you'd like addressed? Any idea can work; what has been puzzling you? Drop me an email and let me know.

I have recently been granted the ability to award CE Hours through NCBTMB for the Myofascial Mentoring program. varying from 1-5 days in duration, you will earn 8-40 CE Hours, depending on the length of your Program.

Also, we have added a number of new cities for Foundations in Myofascial Release Seminars. You can check out the list below. The small group settings with a high level of one on one instruction are what set Foundations Seminars apart from the rest. Join us and find out for yourself!

One other piece of news: Retakes are a popular means to brush up on or deepen one's knowledge of technique. I have instituted a $150 retake fee for any Foundations in Myofascial Release Seminar at one-third the price of your initial registration. Email me for details on how to take advantage of this offer.

Facebook Groups


Most of us (OK, I will stick to I statements)...I spend way too much time on Facebook, but how can you not, when there are so many great places to go? Here are a few groups you may wish to check out:

The Myofascial Release Forum (my favorite)

Spa College

Massage Therapists

Skeletal Considerations in Manual Therapy

And, don't forget the Myofascial Release Therapist Group on LinkedIn.  
 

Foundations logo
Upcoming Seminars

 

Myofascial Release...Demystified

    

 

Foundations in Myofascial Release Seminars has been chosen to present at the 2013 World Massage Conference (August 4-7, 2013 in Long Beach, CA). Join us aboard the Queen Mary! 
 

Proudly offering small group seminars with guaranteed one-on-one interaction. If you are looking for a seminar experience with highly personalized attention, Foundations Seminars are right for you.

2012- 2013 Seminar Schedule

(check the website, more classes being added regularly)

 

 

Foundations I 

   


Rochester, NY
September 14-16, 2012
Sponsored by:
The Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage ROCHESTER CAMPUS

San Diego, California
October 5-7, 2012

Canton, Ohio
October 25-27, 2012
Sponsored by:
Stark State College

Tucson, Arizona
November 9-11, 2012

Ottawa, Illinois
March 22-24, 2013
Sponsored by:
Two Rivers Bodyshop

Philadelphia (Chadds Ford), PA
May 17-19, 2013
Sponsored by:
Institute for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Inc.

Long Beach, California
(World Massage Festival 2013)

August 5-7, 2013

Las Vegas, NV
September 16-18, 2013
Sponsored by:
Las Vegas Therapeutic Academy

Charlotte (Cornelius), North Carolina
September 27-29, 2013
Sponsored by:
NC Massage School



                    Foundations II
(no prerequisite required)

Las Cruces, New Mexico
February 22-24, 2013
Sponsored by:
Relax! Massage Therapy Inc.

Englewood, Florida
April 12-14, 2013
Sponsored by:
The Open Studio

 

All Foundation in Myofascial Release Seminars are 20 contact hours/over two and one-half days and it are packed with techniques, theory, and practical application. Building upon a deep model of evaluation, you will leave this seminar ready to use Myofascial Release on your first day back to work. Developing the "Feel"  for soft tissue restriction and connecting this to your patient's pain is an essential element missing in other lines of MFR education. Foundations Seminars delves into learning the "Feel", making you a more effective therapist.  

 

NCBTMB CE hours continuing education credits are available, as well as Physical Therapy CE Hours.  CE Hours for other professions available, please inquire. 

 

For full details and to register, please refer to the  Seminars Page of the website.   


 
Why would you choose to be mentored at my clinic, vs. other programs? The Myofascial Mentoring Program is especially tailored to refine and deepen the sense of "Feel", which is the important aspect of the Foundations approach. Break down the barriers that are holding you back in the treatment room. You will share in the experience of actual day-to-day treatment, with plenty of time to work through your own goals and objectives.

Additionally, the Myofascial Mentoring Program now qualifies for CE Hours through NCBTMB. Scheduling is very flexible.

 Contact us  for more details.
 
Another Home on the Web 

You can follow my blog and join a great community at Massage and Bodywork Professionals

 
 www.massageprofessionals.com

sponsored by ABMP


New Handouts Available

I was recently asked to contribute an article to Terra Rosa, an e-magazine, on Pelvic Organ Prolapse and how Myofascial Release can help. I have reprints available for download from my website. Having professional handouts available to distribute to clients, doctors, and the media can do wonders to build your business. You can download the article here


I also released another reproducible patient handout. This one addresses tightness of the hip flexors.



When teaching home stretching for psoas related tightness, my preference is the supine "Thomas Stretch", but some times patients desire a different approach.



A third option I teach is a standing psoas stretch:



The three stretch handouts can be found on this page of the website. All handouts are printed in pdf format with space at the top to allow printing on your own letterhead.


  Video Content For Your Website


Walt Fritz Demonstrates A Sample Session of Myofascial Release, What to Expect.
Walt Fritz Demonstrates A Sample Session of Myofascial Release, What to Expect.

While at Oakworks recently, I made a video specifically designed to help the myofascial release therapist spread the word of their modality to perspective clients. The above video was filmed in a manner that it can be inserted onto your website or emails, and can educate the public about what an MFR session is all about. A good number of therapists have already posted the video with very good reviews.
 

Inserting the video should be quite easy and YouTube allows for a number of different ways to embed a video. Here is the direct link to the YouTube video:

 

Sample Myofascial Release Session 

 

View all of my Oakworks videos here, on the WaltFritzPT channel. 

  

 

Myofascial Release Research

The Research Page of the website grows monthly. Currently there are over 300 research citations, some of which are full text articles. Content varies from specific research relating to myofascial release, while others span the globe of information related to bodywork in general. If there is an article out there that you would like to see posted, please let me know. I don't cherry pick articles; you will find research complimentary to MFR as well as critical.

Some of the latest articles that have been posted are:
Check out these and the rest of the articles out on the Research Page.

Sponsoring a Foundations in Myofascial Release Seminar

 


Foundations Seminars are dedicated to providing quality small group setting continuing education workshops. Using a sponsorship model has brought seminars to smaller cities that are typically skipped by the larger companies. If you have an interest in bringing a Foundations Seminar to your town, I would love to talk.

Seminar sponsoring brings attention to your practice and allows you to build a reputation in your community. Also, you will share a percentage of the registration fees and attend the seminar for free.

If you would like more information, refer to this page of the website, then email me or call at 585-244-6180.

 
Find all of those treatment and self-treatment tools that we talked about at Foundations Seminars.

Treatment and self-treatment tools, books, music, DVD's and more...including Liquid Chalk; check it out!

Join the Myofascial Release and Body Worker Practitioner Directory.
 
Let's face it, the internet has become the primary place that prospective clients search for caregivers. If you do not have some sort of presence on the internet, you are losing the battle. I've spoken in the past about how Yellow Page-type advertising seldom pays off, especially when internet marketing can be so inexpensive, but far reaching.

Placing your practice listing on the Myofascial Release and Body Worker Practitioner Directory is not only a smart move, but a highly effective one. Bucking the trend that many listing sites have set, the Directory is free of charge. Why would I do this? First off, I believe in spreading the word of the good work that we all do. Second, I believe that existing directory sites take advantage of therapists by charging them huge amounts of money every year. And, third, practice listings bring more traffic to my website, which is the point of all of this, correct?

If you choose to make the smart marketing move, you can download the Directory application here and  email it to us.
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Walt Fritz, PT
2050 South Clinton Ave.
Rochester, New York 14618
585.244.6180