The International Fascia Research group defines fascia as: the soft tissue component of the connective tissue system that permeates the human body. It forms a whole body continuous three-dimensional matrix of structural support. It interpenetrates and surrounds all organs, muscles, bones and nerve fibres, creating a unique environment for body system functioning. Fascia is the only body tissue that can modify and/or regain its elasticity/consistency when subjected to manipulation in the form of pressure, heat and vibration. At Platypus Pilates we offer two different methods to manipulate the fascia. The Stecco method, which is a treatment, and the Rossiter method, which is a workout. For both methods we take a thorough medical history. Then, if you choose Stecco, the area of treatment is found through movement verification and palpation. The identified densified points will be manipulated by applying pressure with elbow, knuckle or thumb until the pain has diminished. I prefer to feel the skin, so you might have to –partially- undress. If you choose Rossiter, you – the person in charge – will lie down – fully dressed, and I – the coach – will place my ‘clean socked’ foot on, say, your arm, applying pressure until you tell me it is enough. You will then ‘lock’ your body and move the arm slowly through a particular movement, taking about 10 seconds. And repeat this 2 or 3 times. Both methods are painful but you should also feel an immediate relieve or increase in range of motion. Which one you choose is up to your personal preference. Stecco works on the principle of therapeutic points in the fascia that coordinate with specific movements, while Rossiter works on the principle that fascia releases more when the ‘patient’ actively engages the muscle. I would therefore say that Rossiter is the more global approach, while Stecco is more local, precise. The good thing about both methods is that, should it not work, it won’t make it worse either!   Keen to give it a go? You can email me at: mariska@platypuspilates.com or ring me on 021-168 7424. I am a registered Fascial Manipulation Level III provider (only one in New Zealand) and Rossiter coach. Treatments vary between 60 to 90 minutes and cost $60 or $90.   And once everything is moving freely and pain free, how about joining me in some Pilates classes? For more information about Pilates -and a bit more about fascia -, please visit: www.platypuspilates.com.   See you soon! Mariska   Platypus Pilates Studio 11 Ngaio Gorge Road Ngaio, Wellington 6035 04- 934 3368/ 021 – 168 7424 facebook.com/PlatypusPilates