Myofascial Release Bristol / Superficial back line
Anatomy Trains
Superficial back line
The Superficial Back Line runs along the back of the body from the plantar Fascia under the foot to the Fascia of the scalp and brow. It holds the body upright and is one of the most common lines to tighten.
Route
Where the Superficial Back Line runs
The line starts under the toes with the plantar Fascia, wraps around the heel into the Achilles and calf, continues through the hamstrings to the sacrotuberous ligament at the pelvis, then runs up the erector spinae muscles beside the spine to the base of the skull and over the scalp to the brow.
- Plantar Fascia and short toe flexors
- Calves and Achilles
- Hamstrings
- Sacrotuberous ligament
- Erector spinae and thoracolumbar Fascia
- Suboccipital muscles and scalp Fascia
When it tightens
Signs of a tight Superficial Back Line
A short back line makes it hard to touch the toes with straight legs, pulls the head forward or back and stiffens the lower back. Common complaints include heel pain, tight calves and hamstrings, lower back ache and headaches at the base of the skull.
Treatment
Releasing the Superficial Back Line
James works the line from the feet upward: plantar Fascia, calves, hamstrings, the lower back and finally the neck and base of the skull. A forward bend and straight leg raise are measured before and after, and many people find they can bend noticeably further at the end of the session.
Questions
Superficial back line: questions answered
Can a tight foot cause back pain?
Through the Superficial Back Line, tension in the sole of the foot and calves can add to tension in the back, which is why both are treated.
What stretches help this line?
A gentle forward fold with soft knees and a calf stretch against a wall both lengthen the line.
Which conditions involve this line?
Plantar fasciitis, hamstring tightness, lower back pain and tension headaches often involve it.
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