Flossing

Flossing - A Method for Treating the Fascia

What Is Flossing?

Flossing is a supportive method in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system that targets the fascia, muscles, and tissue. The tool is a firm, elastic, rubber-like band that is wrapped very tightly around the limbs and trunk, depending on the location of the affected area. The resulting strong compression of the tissue leads to temporary constriction. All vessels are compressed so strongly that blood and lymph flow is temporarily greatly reduced. During the compression, manual techniques and movement exercises are carried out in the treated area.

How Is the Method Explained?

According to the inventors of the Functional Flossing method, Andreas Ahlhorn and Dennis Krämer, three mechanisms of action are described:

• Sponge effect
• Subcutaneous irritation
• Kinetic resolve

The sponge effect occurs because compression squeezes out tissue fluid, e.g., metabolic end products. When the compression is subsequently released, fresh, nutrient-rich fluid can be supplied to the treated area again. Metabolic end products accumulate, for example, in greater amounts during inflammation in the muscles. According to this explanatory model, the compression is meant to stimulate the exchange of tissue fluid.When compression is combined with movement, so-called subcutaneous irritation occurs. Shear forces arise in the tissue that stimulate the mechanoreceptors (pressure sensors) in the lower layer of the skin and in the fascia. Nerves transmit the signals of the mechanoreceptors to the spinal cord faster than the pain receptors, whereby, according to this model, pain signals are meant to be inhibited. The term kinetic resolve can be translated as "released movement." Manual therapy techniques and movement exercises are meant to lead to the tissue being decompressed under the compression. In the process, so-called crosslinks are meant to be broken up. These are, for example, hydrogen bonds caused by injuries and overloading that cause painful adhesions in the tissue. According to this model, adhesions of muscles, fascia, and tendons are meant to be released in this way.

Where Is Flossing Used?

Flossing is used, for example, in connection with the following complaints:

• myofascial adhesions (adhesions in the area of the muscles and fascia)
• Osteoarthritis
• Restricted movement
• Swelling
• Shoulder impingement
• Tennis elbow
• Blockages in the area of the sacroiliac joint
• Torn muscle fibers
• Muscle strain
• Heel spur