Cristina Shupe, PT -- Physical Therapist and Fascial Counterstrain Provider in San Francisco: Specializing in the treatment of chronic pain, injuries and conditions

about fascial counterstrain

about fascial counterstrain

Fascial Counterstrain & Why It Works

Nearly every painful condition can benefit from this gentle technique. 

 

Fascial Counterstrain (FCS) offers a gentle, holistic approach to treating fascial dysfunction and inflammation across all body systems. Rooted in anatomy, FCS identifies and releases deep fascial restrictions using precise manual techniques, improving circulation and lymphatic flow.

Fascial Counterstrain (FCS) is a hands-on therapeutic technique that targets protective spasms in the body's tissues. When injury occurs, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, arteries, veins, and even organs can enter a state of reflexive contraction, leading to pain and dysfunction. These spasms can persist, spread, and create numerous tender points throughout the body. FCS gently releases these restrictions by unloading the affected structures and restoring balance.

A combination of gentle body positioning and compression or shortening of the strained structure facilitates a therapeutic release. By applying a “counterstrain”—carefully positioning the body to reduce strain—the affected tissue quickly relaxes, relieving tension and alleviating pain. This process calms the nervous system, improves circulation, and restores normal function. By normalizing tension and reducing inflammation, Fascial Counterstrain helps resolve chronic pain and dysfunction, supporting the body’s natural healing processes and providing lasting relief.


 
Fascial Counterstrain allows practitioners to identify and correct dysfunction in all regions and systems of the body, not just the musculoskeletal system…
— Brian Tuckey, PT, OCS, JSCCI Founder and Creator of Fascial Counterstrain™