Some scientists say structure determines function. Others say function determines structure. The debate rages on. Is it possible that it is both? Is the effect of structure and function interchangeable?
Recent research has shown that the ground substance of the fascial system is the immediate environment of every cell of our body. It has also been shown that an increase in the viscosity of the ground substance can change the shape and mobility of the cell. The change in the shape of the architecture of the cell alters its function and the important bio-chemical reactions required for health. Bob Mollica, PT has provided an important link to and an article titled, “An architect walks into the lab.” ( http://www.upenn.edu/gazette/0109/feature1_1.html )
You may also want to read my new article on the Massage Magazine website titled, “Myofascial Release Perspective: Therapeutic Insight—Fascia, a Liquid-Crystalline Matrix.” To access my latest article, go to www.massagemag.com and scroll down on the left side of the page to the box titled “techniques” and click on that tab. Then you can click on my latest “Therapeutic Insight” article or you can click on the following link for direct access: http://www.massagemag.com/News/massage-news.php?id=7057 .
Thanks.
John
6 responses so far ↓
marilyn // Aug 17th 2009 at 10:13 am
I found this article about architecture combining forces with biology to better understand the “design” of the body using the software developed for design fascinating. This seems like TRUE learning using creativity. Interesting to note they have been criticized for their creative approach, attempting to learn outside the normal paradigm.
I liked how the article addressed the importance of the ground substance and acknowledge it has been overlooked by teachers. I love the following explanation and wish I had been taught this concept early on in massage school.
The average high-school biology teacher probably doesn’t spend much time on the extracellular matrix, but animal life would be all but impossible without it. The Extra Cellular Matrix(ECM) is the connective tissue that provides structural support to living cells, giving them a sort of scaffolding to which they can anchor. It also regulates communication between cells, stores and releases chemicals that can trigger a range of cellular functions, and governs the movement and migration of cells through its intricate architecture. The complexity of the system beggars description. The components of extracellular matrices are manufactured inside of their resident cells, which then fall subject to the influence of structural and biochemical changes within the scaffolds they have excreted.
The far-reaching influence of the ECM has profound implications. “You could potentially treat diseases and cause cell behavior to change by changing the extracellular matrix’s elasticity,”
This is the benefit of Myofascial Release Therapy. Amazing!
Ramsay Z Falcoe // Aug 17th 2009 at 10:34 am
I am a massage therapist/acupuncturist. I have a theory/speculation about how the binding down of the fascia interferes with the integrity of the energy meridians. Would you have any theories/insight, knowledge/research on this subject?
John Barnes // Aug 21st 2009 at 1:34 pm
Hi Ramsey,
You are correct, myofascial restrictions can have a profound effect upon the meridians’ ability to allow for energy, “chi” flow.
I am currently writing a Therapeutic Insight article and will get back to you soon with more information.
Thanks,
John
Yucatandan // Aug 29th 2009 at 3:46 pm
John,
Your simple encouraging words of “Never Give Up” have stuck with me since, I learned of you and your work in late 2004.
Through your whole body approach I have been able to over come the symptoms of my cervical stenosis and lunbar stenosis, lordosis and mild scoliosis along with my twisted-tilted pelvis. Slowly but surely the “layers” released to free my multiple structural dysfunctions allowing my body to function again without constant pain.
I worked hard over the past two years to regain a routine aerobic activity. It was two steps forward and one step back at times. I learned to go into my “fears” along the way along with your message of “Never Give Up”.
Last week the time had come when I visited an old childhood friend in Montana. He is superb physical condition and runs triathalons. I felt comfortable with him since, we had known each other most of our lives. He had me fly fishing and stumbling along the Yellowstone River. The enjoyment of being in these surroundings and teh outdooor activities allowed me a total freedom. I never worried or thought about reprecussions as in the past few years. “Never Give Up” continually ran through my mind and my body. My friend asked me early last Saturday morning if I wanted to take a hike up to lake. I said “lets go” with enthusiasm of a child.
I was slightly concerned at first. I saw the steep rocky terrain my friend began our hike on. Then, I listened to my own intuition” along with some encouraging words from my friend “You can do this”.
After a few hours we reached the summit and the lake appeared. My friend congratulated me and said “You are at 10,000 feet”. I was winded but felt great. All it took was “believing” in myself and trusting my own intuition. After a lengthy battle with multiple injuries and structural problems through your wise words and approach was I able to attain this accomlishment with realtive ease. The time had come.
It was an amazing view from up there.
I felt as if I was on top of the world. Later, when we reached the bottom and went to our vehicle my friend said to me “you just climbed Beartooth Mountain” it is one of the highest points in Montana. I just looked at the moutain and said “thanks”. I was in awe. I felt tired is all.
This was a major breakthrough for me. I know it will not be long before I am able to particpate in most any physical activity I choose in the future.
I owe it all to those simple words you whispered to me several years ago to “Never Give Up”.
Thanks
Dan
“You Were Once Born Wild Do Not Ever Let Them Tame You”
Owen Dodge // Aug 31st 2009 at 12:11 pm
John,
Thinking about structure vs. function, I’d appreciate hearing your perspective on how Myofascial Release can benefit women’s hormonal changes as they age. Many of my clients are experiencing changes associated with menopause.
Have you been able to determine that Myofascial Release can help make this transition more comfortable. If so, do you have insight on how this occurs?
Thanks for your perspective!
» Accupuncture and Myofascial Release Myofascial Release // Sep 15th 2009 at 3:12 pm
[...] Ramsay Z Falcoe // Aug 17th 2009 at 10:34 am [...]
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