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Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Effects of the myofascial release in diffuse systemic sclerosis
1ABR-Associação Brasileira de Rolfing, ERA-European Rolfing Association, Rua Ambrosina de Macedo, 107, CEP 04013-030 São Paulo, Brazil. marilene-martin@hotmail.com
Objective:
To improve breathing and functionality of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and hands, by increasing the range of motion (ROM), and to reduce the level of pain.
Method:
Twenty myofascial release (MR) sessions in 2002 with assessments (chest expansion, mouth opening, ROM of wrist and fingers). Between the 19th and the 20th session there was a break of 110 days. Every winter, 1-3 sessions have been made.
Results:
Chest: expansion increased by 3.5 cm and pain was eliminated at the scar from a biopsy; TMJ: an 8mm increase in mouth opening with pain eliminated; hands and fingers: increase of ROM in all joints of fingers and wrists, of up to 100%, reduction in ulcerations and recovery of nail growth.
Conclusion:
The connective tissue affected by diffuse systemic sclerosis (dSSc) is subject to remodeling through MR, receding when the work is interrupted. Resuming the treatment on a regular basis increased the ROM in joints, reduced the effects of the Raynaud Phenomenon and the pain.
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