Holidays can be stressful: Myofascial release session makes a great gift

A 7Bends exclusive interview with Kelly Davall, a Certified Massage Therapist and Bodyworker,  in Shenandoah County, VA. —

7Bends: Kelly, tell us about the kind of work you do.

Kelly Davall: People often ask me what the difference is with massage therapy and bodywork. Massage therapy evokes images of stroking, kneading and soft fist manipulation of tissue.  Bodywork can consist of joint mobilization, stretching, balancing, cranial-sacral work, tapping, myofascial release, unwinding, and so on.  I’ve  incorporated myofascial work into most of my client sessions and have seen remarkable results.

7Bends: What exactly is fascia?

Kelly Davall: Fascia is connective tissue that spreads throughout the entire body.  It is the three-dimensional uninterrupted webbing that effects both our internal and external structures.  Fascial restrictions or “binding” can negatively influence nerves, muscles, blood flow, tendons, ligaments, bones and/or organs.  This impingement can also influence our mental clarity, emotions, energy level, mood and sexual drive.

7Bends: So, how do you work with the fascia?

Kelly Davall: There are a couple of approaches to myofascial work, both of which I have used and both can prove equally effective.  Myofascial release is slow, gentle pressure, which warms and stretches the fascial restrictions.  Myofascial unwinding tends to be faster and deeper incorporating twisting or winding motions.  Both may alleviate pain and dysfunction while addressing “holding or bracing” patterns.  These patterns or misconceptions may hamper the body’s ability to self-correct.

7Bends: In your experience, what type of conditions can be helped by myofascial release?

Kelly Davall: In my practice, myofascial work has proven effective with a myriad of maladies; back pain, neck pain, headaches, carpal tunnel, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, injuries/inflammation, TMJ, restricted motion, nerve dysfunction. The list goes on.

7Bends: In closing, what other skills do you believe are important in working with clients?

Kelly Davall: I find that I can serve my clients best when I listen.  Listen to what they vocalize and listen to what their bodies tell me.  Through developing sensitivity to the flow of fascia; the viscosity, layering and direction, I’ve been able to custom fit client sessions to meet their specific needs.

In the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia
If you (or a friend or a family member) are  interested in learning more about how bodywork can help with stress and address issues,  feel free to contact Kelly Davall here:

CrossRoads Physical Therapy
Woodstock, VA -  (540) 459-7660

Or, call (540) 325-9648 for Strasburg location,  or other pre-arranged location.

- Nationally Certified, State licensed
- Insured, AMTA member
- Professional,  reasonable fees
- Gift certificates are available for the holidays, birthdays, etc.  Or, just pamper yourself!

Tags: bodywork, listening, massage, myofascial release, Shenandoah, stress during holidays, stress relief, unwinding