Fascial Counterstrain is a gentle manual therapy technique that works with the nervous system and fascial structures to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and release patterns of tension throughout the body.
A gentle, hands-on technique for the head, face, jaw, and neck. Your therapist finds tender points, places you in a position of ease, and holds it while the tissue lets go. No forceful pressure, no cracking.
Counterstrain is a gentle, hands-on technique. Your therapist finds tender points in the tissue, then moves you into a position of ease and holds it there while the tissue lets go. That gives the nervous system a chance to settle. There is no forceful pressure, no cracking, and no pain during the hold.
Facial Counterstrain applies this approach to the head, face, jaw, and neck, and to the fascial system that connects them to the rest of the body. Many people book it for jaw tension, headaches, sinus pressure, neck stiffness, or a general feeling of holding tension in the face.
The muscles of the face, jaw, and neck work all day. They help you chew, talk, breathe, and hold your head up. When you are stressed, many of these muscles tighten without you noticing. Clenching at night, long hours at a screen, and old injuries can add to the load.
That tension does not stay put. The fascia that wraps the face and jaw connects down through the neck and shoulders. So a tight jaw can show up as a stiff neck, and a stiff neck can show up as a headache. Counterstrain works with that whole chain instead of one spot.
Facial Counterstrain is a good fit if you want a very gentle option, if firm massage feels like too much, or if you have tension that other approaches have not touched. It pairs well with clinical massage, craniosacral work, and nervous system regulation sessions. If you have a recent injury or surgery, tell us when you book so we can plan around it.
At Transcending Health we look at the whole person. Facial Counterstrain often works best as part of a plan. Some clients pair it with clinical massage for the neck and shoulders. Others add breathwork or a sound healing session to help the nervous system stay calm between visits. If posture or desk habits are feeding the tension, corrective exercise can help you keep the gains.
We will talk through your goals at your first visit and suggest a simple plan. You are never locked into a package.
Does it hurt? No. The positions are chosen because they feel easy. If something is uncomfortable, say so and we adjust.
How many sessions do I need? Some people feel a change after one visit. Long-standing tension often does better with a short series. We will give you an honest read after the first visit.
Can I combine it with other services? Yes. Many clients add it to a massage or book it before a sound healing session.
Is it safe if I have dental work or a jaw condition? Counterstrain is very gentle, but tell us about any dental work, jaw issues, or recent injuries when you book so your therapist can plan the session around them.
What should I wear? Anything comfortable. You do not need to change.
We are a private-pay clinic and do not bill insurance. Purchased services stay on your account for up to 365 days. Not sure this is the right starting point? Book a free 15-minute consultation or call 434-465-2905 and we will help you choose.
Our clinic is at 1445 Rio Road East, Suite 201 F in Charlottesville, with free parking at the door. See hours, directions, and parking details.
By signing up, you gain private access to our holiday specials and receive monthly coupons that bring you closer to your health and happiness goals. But that's not all – you'll also be the first to know about upcoming events that can elevate your wellness journey.
Book Now