Fascial Expansion: MSR Headache Protocol
Updated: 2 days ago
Using fascial expansions to treat headaches is an innovative approach that combines the latest research in fascia, kinetic chain connections, and primary concepts found in acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine. This article will discuss how integrating fascial planes with acupuncture points GB20, B60, TH5, LI4, and Yin Tang can effectively relieve headache, including tension, migraine, and cervicogenic headaches.
Article Index
Fascia
Fascia is often defined as "one interconnected tensional network that adapts its fibre arrangement and density according to local tensional demands." When fascial tension is in good balance, fascia distributes force throughout the body, allowing us to store and release energy for propulsion. When fascial tension is out-of-balance, hypertensive, or restricted, fascia can become the source of various dysfunctions, including headaches.
Fascial Planes and Headaches
Restrictions in fascial planes can be addressed using multiple techniques, such as acupuncture hands-on manipulation (soft tissue and skeletal). In the context of headaches, at least three fascial planes warrant consideration:
Epicranial Fascia: This fascia connects the occipitalis and frontalis muscles and seamlessly merges with the temporal fascia, which envelops the temporalis muscle. Moving anteriorly, the epicranial fascia transitions into Tenon's Fascia.
Tenon's Fascia: This fascia protects the levator muscle of the upper eyelid. The posterior third of Tenon's fascia joins with the orbital fat, which becomes continuous with the sheath surrounding the optic nerve.
The deep temporal fascia: A dense layer surrounding the temporalis muscle, offering attachment for superficial fibers. It connects with the epicranial fascia superiorly and adheres to the superior temporal line. Inferiorly, it splits into superficial and deep laminae, attaching to the zygomatic arch's lateral and medial edges.
Acupuncture/Acupressure
& Headaches
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture points, or acupoints, are specific locations on the body known for their therapeutic potential. These points are strategically situated along meridians or channels that guide the flow of energy, or "Qi" (pronounced "chi"), throughout the body. Acupressure, a related practice, involves manually stimulating these points to achieve similar therapeutic effects.
Stimulating acupuncture points in TCM is believed to restore equilibrium, regulate Qi circulation, alleviate pain, and promote healing. This ancient approach aims to maintain harmony and balance within the body's energy system.
Contemporary scientific research supports the physiological basis of these practices. Acupuncture points often coincide with regions dense in nerve endings, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels, as well as areas with enhanced electrical conductivity. Stimulating these points may trigger physiological responses such as releasing endorphins, neurotransmitters, and other pain-relieving substances and influence blood flow regulation and immune responses.
Acupuncture/Pressure Techniques
In acupuncture, needles are not merely inserted into the skin; they are rotated and manipulated until the acupuncturist perceives a response in the tissue, often referred to as a "tug response." Similarly, acupressure involves more than just moving the tissue around the acupuncture point. It requires considering the exact location, surrounding anatomical structures, and direct fascial connections. The practitioner must palpate for any restrictions in the surrounding area that may be connected to the local acupuncture point being treated.
The acupuncture point is treated with various motions, including clockwise and counterclockwise rotations and fascial kneading of the soft tissue. This often involves rolling the tissue and moving it in multiple directions. While focusing on specific points, it is also essential to consider the fascial kinetic web and the larger kinetic chain that affects the entire body. This technique aims to activate the nervous system, modulate immune function, and release tension within the interconnected fascial network, ultimately alleviating discomfort through precise, targeted stimulation. Understanding the principles of tensegrity further highlights the interconnectedness and dynamic balance of the fascial system.
Specific Acupuncture Points
The acupuncture points GB20, B60, TH5, LI4, and Yin Tang are commonly used for headache relief in TCM. These points are typically identified using the Chinese measurement unit "cun," employed in acupuncture to pinpoint locations on the body. One cun is approximately the width of the patient's thumb at the knuckle, 1.5 cun matches the combined width of the index and middle fingers, and 3 cun is equivalent to the width of the patient's four fingers when placed together.
GB 20 (Fengchi):
Location: GB 20, also known as Fengchi, is a significant acupuncture point located in the depression between the upper portion of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the trapezius muscle, just below the occipital bone.
MSK: This point can be used in musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions to alleviate neck stiffness, shoulder tension, and headaches caused by muscle tightness and poor posture.
TCM: In traditional Chinese medicine, GB 20 is also used to treat conditions such as dizziness, insomnia, common colds, and hypertension by promoting the circulation of Qi and blood, and clearing wind and heat from the body.
Contraindications: GB 20 should be used with caution in individuals with severe cervical spine issues or fractures, and deep needling should be avoided to prevent injury to the spinal cord or brainstem.
BL60 (Kunlun)
Location: Found on the foot, in the depression between the external malleolus and the Achilles tendon.
Function: Frequently used for lower back pain, headache, and labor pain, B60 can be instrumental in managing foot pain due to its capacity to relax muscles, alleviate pain, and improve local circulation.
Contraindications: BL 60 is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its potential to induce labor and should be avoided in cases of local injuries, inflammation, or vascular conditions near the ankle.
TH5 (Triple Heater 5 - Waiguan)
Anatomical location: TH 5 is found on the dorsal (back) side of the forearm, approximately two cun above the wrist crease between the radius and ulna.
MSK Usage: TH 5 is used to alleviate pain and stiffness in the wrist, hand, and forearm. It's also applied in treating conditions such as tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, and general arm pain or weakness.
TCM Usage: Used to clear heat, release the exterior, and treat conditions like headaches, fevers, and ear disorders. In Western medical terms it is used to help reduce inflammation, boost immune response, and alleviate symptoms like headaches, fever, and ear disorders, potentially by improving circulation and reducing tension.
Contraindications: Avoiding needling patients with severe blood disorders, local skin infections, or those who are pregnant, as stimulating this point could potentially affect uterine contractions, open wounds, or severe inflammation in the area.
LI 4 (Hegu)
Location: Dorsal aspect of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones, approximately at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone.
Indications: LI 4 (Hegu) is an effective acupuncture point for treating TMD by relieving pain, reducing inflammation, decreasing stress and muscle tension, improving circulation, and balancing Qi. LI 4, also known as Hegu, is a crucial acupressure point in traditional Chinese medicine and is classified as a Yuan-Source point of the Large Intestine Meridian. This means it plays a vital role in balancing the body's primary qi (energy) and is often used to treat conditions related to the internal organs. Renowned for its ability to alleviate pain and inflammation, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being.
Contraindications: LI 4 (Hegu) is contraindicated during pregnancy because it can induce uterine contractions and potentially cause premature labor. It should also be used cautiously or avoided in patients with conditions that contraindicate stimulation or manipulation of this acupoint.
Yin Tang (Hall of Impression):
Location: exactly midway between the medial ends of the two eyebrows, in the area often referred to as the "third eye." This point is situated in the center of the forehead, just above the bridge of the nose.
Function: The Yin Tang acupuncture point is primarily used to calm the mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and relieve headaches and sinus congestion, making it effective for treating insomnia, emotional disturbances, and frontal headaches. It also helps improve focus and mental clarity.
Contraindications: Yin Tang generally has no significant contraindications and is considered safe for most patients. However, caution should be exercised in individuals with open wounds, skin infections, or significant skin conditions at the site.
Fascial Expansion Demonstration
Fascial Expansion: MSR Headache Protocol
In this video, Dr. Abelson discusses the fascial planes directly related to headaches. He then demonstrates how practitioners combine this knowledge with Traditional Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture/Acupressure). By understanding the interconnected nature of fascial planes, their effect on jaw function, and the specific acupuncture points and techniques used in TCM, practitioners can effectively alleviate pain for patients with Headaches.
Conclusion
Utilizing fascial expansions to treat headaches represents an innovative and effective approach that merges contemporary fascia research, kinetic chain connections, and key concepts from traditional Chinese medicine. By integrating fascial planes with acupuncture points such as GB20, BL60, TH5, LI4, and Yin Tang, practitioners can significantly enhance treatment outcomes for various types of headaches, including tension, migraine, and cervicogenic headaches.
This holistic approach addresses immediate pain and promotes long-term health by restoring balance within the body's interconnected fascial network. By combining soft tissue manipulation, skeletal adjustments, and targeted acupuncture or acupressure techniques, patients can experience comprehensive relief and improved well-being. Explore this integrative method to achieve effective headache management and a better quality of life.
References
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DR. BRIAN ABELSON, DC. - The Author
Dr. Brian Abelson is a chiropractor, author, and educator with more than 30 years of clinical experience in musculoskeletal care, rehabilitation, and sports performance. His educational work focuses on musculoskeletal conditions, human movement, sports biomechanics, and evidence-informed approaches to treatment and rehabilitation.
He is the developer of Motion Specific Release (MSR) and Clinical Director of Kinetic Health in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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