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Myofascial Release Therapy for Pediatrics in Asheville, NC

                         Gentle, Hands-On Support for Children

​The John F. Barnes Myofascial Release Approach® is a gentle, hands-on therapy that focuses on the

fascia—the connective tissue that surrounds, supports, and connects muscles, bones, organs, nerves, and other structures throughout the body.

Babies can develop fascial restrictions in utero and during the birth process. This can result in anatomical imbalances that cause difficulty in nursing, stomach discomfort, constipation, sleeping issues, tense little bodies, and general fussiness. 

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Toddlers and children can experience fascial restrictions as a result of birth trauma, injuries, surgery, inflammation, neurological conditions, repetitive movement, or developmental challenges. These restrictions may contribute to tension, discomfort, limited mobility, altered posture, or difficulty moving efficiently. The John F. Barnes approach looks at the body as an interconnected system rather than treating only the area where the symptoms occur. 

How Does Pediatric Myofascial Release Work?

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Treatment uses slow, gentle, sustained pressure and stretching to engage areas of fascial restriction. Rather than forcing or manipulating the body, the therapist follows the body's natural response and allows the tissue time to soften and release. In the John F. Barnes approach, the therapist gradually engages a restriction and maintains gentle pressure while waiting for the tissue to respond. As the restriction releases, the therapist follows the movement and reassesses the child's comfort, alignment, mobility, and function. Pediatric techniques are adapted to the child's age, size, condition, tolerance, and individual needs.Treatment may be performed while a child is lying down, sitting, or in another comfortable position. The goal is always to create a safe, supportive experience while encouraging improved tissue mobility and more efficient movement.

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John F. Barnes' Pediatric Myofascial Release training specifically addresses children with conditions and challenges including:

 

  • Birth trauma and birth-related restrictions

  • Difficulty nursing

  • Sleeping issues

  • Digestive discomfort

  • Head injuries

  • Scoliosis and postural imbalances

  • Movement dysfunction

  • Neurological dysfunction

  • Muscle tightness or abnormal muscle tone

  • Restricted range of motion

  • Pain and headaches

  • Difficulty with coordination or functional movement

  • Soft-tissue restrictions following trauma or surgery

 

The approach may be incorporated into a child's broader rehabilitation program and can complement other pediatric therapies such as physical or occupational therapy.

What Symptoms or Challenges May Pediatric MFR Address

Recent Testimonials

 

"Dana was able to help our son so much! We brought him to her at 8 weeks old to help with a tongue tie. We also learned he had some restrictions from birth trauma. Even after the first session we noticed so much improvement - a more relaxed body overall, no longer favoring one side, and he went from sleeping on his side to relaxed and comfortable on his back. We noticed much more facial and tongue mobility after her work. Dana has such a kind and calm demeanor and our baby was the most calm and relaxed we'd ever seen him during his sessions. We were so impressed with the improvements we saw over the course of our sessions!"

— Kari H.

 

"My three year old son has a tongue tie so I sought out myofascial release to see if it could be released naturally. Dana was wonderful with my son, really listening to my concerns and interacting with him well as she helped release during the sessions. We saw results almost immediately and in four sessions, my son's tongue had functional movement that was noted not only by us but by his speech therapist. I was grateful that Dana not only focused on his mouth area, but looked at James holistically and worked to bring him the most comfort possible through myofascial release."

— Leeann S.

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