(BQ) Part 2 book “Advanced myofascial techniques” has contents: The superficial cervical fascia, the deep posterior neck, the scalenes, the masseter, temporalis, and digastrics, the medial and lateral pterygoids, and other contents. | Cervical Issues 11 The Superficial Cervical Fascia 12 The Deep Posterior Neck 13 The Scalenes The superficial cervical fascia (transparent outer layer) and the deep cervical fascia (violet inner layer) are continuations of superficial and deep fascial layers that surround the entire body. The deeper myofascial structures of the neck that these layers surround are also visible in this view, and include the scalenes, the transversospinalis, the platysma, etc. Primal Pictures, used by permission. The Superficial Cervical Fascia 11 The Importance of the Superficial Layers What are the most common client issues that you see in your practice? Chances are, neck pain and discomfort are high on the list. Although cervical complaints and conditions can have many causes, you’ll almost always see better results if you begin your work with these very common issues by addressing restrictions in the superficial layers of the neck and shoulders. Whether caused by deep articular fixations, posture and misalignment, habits, stress, injury, or other reasons, neck issues respond quicker and stay away longer when the differentiation and elasticity of the outer wrappings is addressed first. As with other parts of the body, many seemingly deeper neck issues resolve when the external layers have been freed. In this chapter, I’ll describe how to work with these superficial but important layers, which will also prepare for working the neck’s deeper structures (which are covered in the next chapter). Figures (overleaf) The superficial fascia of the neck, in green, surrounds the deeper cervical structures, like a sleeve or cowl. It is continuous with similar layers in the face, head, shoulders, back, and chest. Encircling the neck and shoulders like an over-large turtleneck sweater, or a surgical collar (Figures and ), the neck’s outer wrappings are composed of multiple layers of myofascia. These include superficial layers just under the skin (such as the fascia .
