Fascial Stretch Therapy (FST)

Fascial Stretch Therapy (FST) is an advanced, assisted stretching technique that targets not only muscles, but also the fascia—connective tissue that surrounds and supports your muscles, joints, and organs. This unique method improves flexibility, mobility, and posture while reducing pain and stiffness, especially for individuals dealing with restricted movement or recovering from injury.

At Optimal Health Institute, FST is integrated into personalized treatment plans to enhance overall function and support your body’s healing and performance.

Evidence-Based Results:
Research has shown that improving fascial mobility can lead to better athletic performance, reduced injury risk, and improved posture.
Source: International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy – Fascia and Stretching


How FST Works

Unlike traditional stretching that focuses on isolated muscles, FST addresses entire chains of movement by releasing tension in the fascia. During a session, your provider will:

  • Guide you through dynamic, assisted stretches on a treatment table
  • Stabilize specific joints using straps to isolate movement
  • Stretch multiple planes of motion to decompress and elongate tissues
  • Work with your natural breathing rhythm to enhance relaxation and range of motion

FST is gentle yet highly effective, often resulting in immediate improvement in how your body feels and functions.


Who Can Benefit?

FST is ideal for a wide range of individuals—from athletes to office workers—especially those who experience:

  • Chronic tightness or stiffness
  • Limited range of motion
  • Muscle imbalances or asymmetry
  • Back, hip, or shoulder pain
  • Reduced athletic performance or mobility
  • Recovery challenges following injury or surgery

Many of our McMurray and Canonsburg area patients have found relief and renewed movement through FST when traditional approaches didn’t provide full resolution.


What to Expect from a Session

Each FST session at OHI is customized to your goals and movement patterns. You’ll remain fully clothed in comfortable athletic wear while your provider gently moves your limbs through a series of dynamic stretches. Sessions may last 30 to 60 minutes and are designed to leave you feeling more open, aligned, and energized.


Why FST at OHI?

At Optimal Health Institute, we combine Fascial Stretch Therapy with other holistic treatments—such as chiropractic adjustments, trigger point therapy, and nutritional counseling—to create integrated care plans tailored to your unique needs.

Patients from Pittsburgh and the surrounding suburbs often seek out our services specifically because we go beyond a quick adjustment and take time to understand the full picture of your health, movement, and goals.


Feel the Difference in Your Body

Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance your performance or someone trying to overcome daily stiffness and discomfort, FST is a safe, effective, and proven way to increase mobility and reduce pain. Schedule a session today to experience firsthand the power of fascia-focused care.