Carla B Sottovia PHD addresses the postural and functional myofascial lines using ViPR.

“When one part of the body moves, the body as a whole responds,” said Thomas Myers. The reason for this is that our entire myofascial system is interconnected (myo = muscle tissue and fascia = connective tissue), similar to a railroad train track system. These “anatomical myofascial tracks” are typically aligned in a fairly straight fashion with very minimal direction changes. They also have a fascial and/or mechanical (bone) connection. <1>

As put by Thomas Myers, “The body and the fascial net in particular is a single connected unity in which the muscle and bones float.” Myers has described 12 anatomical myofascial lines that help us understand how our body stands, moves and dissipates forces. <1>

Fascia has several cell components including, but not limited to, fibroblasts and adipose cells, along with several fibrous components including collagen. It is known that we can increase the production of fibroblasts by applying a mechanical stress (‘tension’) to the fascia. New fibroblasts will be formed along the lines of that stress. Collagen fibers have a triple-helical structure. Collagen molecules bond with other adjacent rows of collagen molecules, providing tensile strength and structural support to the fascial tissue. Movement assists collagen fibers to align themselves along the lines of structural stress. Thus, in order to build a stronger fascial network in the body, one needs to move at different angles, speeds and with different loads. <1> <2> 

Thus, fascia’s structural arrangement facilitates motion, protects the body by adapting to physical stresses, and assists in the movement of nutrients and waste via the circulatory system. <2> 

Loaded Movement Training allows us to move in different directions, loads and speeds, providing the body with the ideal recipe not only to maintain but also to build a healthy, pliable and strong myofascial structure, allowing for efficient and long-lasting movement.

Next time you are planning your clients’ and/or your own Loaded Movement Training session, do address your postural and functional myofascial lines. Let’s review them here.

Superficial back line

• It connects and protects the entire posterior area of the body – from the bottom of the foot to the top of the head.
• It supports the body in full upright extension.
• Movement function: To create extension and hyperextension.

Myofascial tracks

• Plantar fascia
• Gastrocnemius/Achilles’ tendon
• Hamstrings
• Sacrotuberous ligament
• Sacrolumbar fascia/erector spinae
• Scalp fascia

Figure 1: Superficial back line

Check out these exercises to work the Superficial back line!

Superficial front line

• It connects the entire anterior surface of the body from the top of the feet to the side of the skull in two pieces – toes to pelvis and pelvis to head.
• Postural function: To balance the superficial back line.
• It provides tensile support from the top, in order to lift the pubis, rib cage and face.

Movement function: Flexion of the trunk and hips, extension of the knee, and dorsiflexion of the foot.

Figure 2: Superficial front line

Check out these exercises for the Superficial front line!

Make sure you come back to www.viprfit.com , Carla will be discussing the Front and Back functional lines very soon! 

In next weeks blog, Steve Rast discusses how utilising ViPR could make you a better coach!  You won’t want to miss out!

References

1.      Myers T (2009), Anatomy Trains, 2nd edition.

2.      Lindsay M (2008), Fascia – Clinical Applications for Health and Human Performance.

3.      ViPR PT Movement Preparation Manual (2014).

4.      ViPR PT Lifting and Shifting for Strength Manual (2014).