JENT ‘Front End’ Flicks
This Module is the first of two (A & B) in which all JENT® Bodyworkers will be shown and become competent at using three unique precision techniques for shifting specific myofascial distortions.
Module A will focus on removing myofascial distortions from the front end -, shoulders and upper back (withers). The detection and directed release of ‘fascial train’ distortions (Myers 2013) in the equine body are the unique hallmarks of JENT®.
Realignment and restoration of the ‘bio-tensegrity’ of this collagen based connective tissue is essential for free form motion and full functionality.
Fascia surrounds and envelops all muscles, bones and organs. It is tough, dense and remains flexible if well hydrated. It is composed of water, a gel like substance and fibrous cells. It is the biological fabric or ‘web’ that holds us all together in an interconnected neuromyofascial matrix.
Foremost fascia researcher and authority Dr Robert Schleip PhD calls it a ‘bodywide tensional force transmission system’ and an ‘interconnected tensional network’.
This view of an interconnected tensional network is partly inspired by the bio-tensegrity concept that explains the balancing of tension as a ‘continuously compressing’ structural system. If we put strain or pain into the structure then deformation is distributed all through the system.
It functions to protect, support, cushion and to provide stability to all structures during movement including violent twisting falls. Myofascia (myo = muscles) does not behave like muscle yet it has a direct effect on muscles in transmitting the directional force vectors from muscles to the bones for all movement.
It does not have its own vascular supply, rather in its functional ‘proper’ state it is soluble, sticky and fluid, surrounding and connecting all muscle fibres. Diet, water intake and the immediate environment can all effect fascial functional integrity.
- One example of often undetected dehydration is the lowest horse on the pecking order does not have its fill of water, as the herd moves away they are compelled to follow.
- Another example is the nervous horse being ‘shy’ of placing their head right down to drink the lower half of a large plastic container of water. As they cannot see over the rim, fear of predators prevents them from drinking freely, yet there appears to be ample water available.
When fascia loses interstitial fluid the fibres become stiff and tangled. As the tissue dehydrates the fibres tangle and adheres to itself and the tissues (skin) surrounding the area.
This change in tissue texture can be felt with the gentle touch of the fingers as a ‘dry’ tensed area where the skin does not slide easily over the myofascial tissue. Sometimes it feels like fine aluminium foil under the skin.
Dianne’s clinical data reveals that a critically high percentage of horses, almost 100% over the age of 18mths in 4 continents, carry distortions of the myofascial web in predictable locations in predictable patterns throughout the body.
These restrictions do not go away with time, rest, or harder work even when the environment is almost calibrated for successful horse husbandry. Over time the dry fibres thicken and prevent free range of motion of the neck, limbs and back. Initially they cause peripheral nerve discomfort and acute sensitivity in the area for up to 6 weeks, when the body sets up a chronic reaction, switches off, holding in place inefficient antalgic pain avoiding postures.
Over a period of time horses display discomfort and muscular tension and pain. Asymmetrical posture and gaits result. Horses then find the most comfortable and economical way to use the body including, swinging the hind legs, moving with the hindquarters off to one side.
When horses are uncomfortable they express that discomfort with behaviours; they shift their weight about, over use some areas and underutilise others, impairing their performance and placing predictable pressure onto joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles and bones through the ‘tensional force transmission system’ of the fascia so well described by Schleip.
