Fasciae (pronounced “FA-shee-uh”) are sheets of connective tissue running beneath the skin that enclose muscles and other organs. Inflammation of various fasciae represents one of the most common pain sources, particularly in the feet and heels. When fascial tissue becomes inflamed, it triggers nociceptors (pain receptors), causing deep burning and tingling sensations.
Nearly 1 in 10 people will experience fascial pain during their lifetime. Fortunately, several products exist to manage this pain and work out kinks in strained connective tissue.
Fasciablaster is a specialized self-massage tool designed for myofascial tissue work. The clawed rod allows you to penetrate deep beneath the skin to reach inflamed tissues and massage them effectively.
Countless tools claim to heal various ailments, though many products fail to deliver on their promises. Today, we’ll examine Fasciablaster in detail, covering its benefits, drawbacks, purchasing options, and whether it delivers on its claims.
Overview: Fasciablaster
Developed by Ashley Black, the Fasciablaster markets itself as the “#1 selling self-massage myofascial tool.” The creators claim that regular use can relieve fascial pain while reducing cellulite appearance. The 21.5″ rod features a series of claw-like ends aligned along the center. You glide the rod over your body while the claws penetrate deep into tissues to massage fascia and break up cellulite. Greater pressure creates deeper massage.
To clarify, the Fasciablaster isn’t a “weight loss” device, though it allegedly reduces the appearance of visceral fat and cellulite. The fat and cellulite remain; they simply become less noticeable.
Beyond the 21.5″ model, there’s a smaller Mini version, a facial blaster, and one designed specifically for feet. Additional claimed benefits include pain reduction, improved flexibility, enhanced circulation, and increased muscle definition. As of 2019, over 700,000 Fasciablasters have sold worldwide.
Advantages
- Can use all over the body
- Massage has proven benefits
- Reduces pain
- Multiple versions available
- Reduces the appearance of cellulite
Disadvantages
- Does not fold up
- Expensive
Who Makes Fasciablaster?
Fascia Blaster was created by Ashley Black, a former competitive athlete turned inventor and fitness expert. Ashley Black’s story is truly inspirational. As a child, she received a diagnosis of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, a rare condition characterized by severe joint and musculoskeletal pain. Despite doctors predicting she’d need a wheelchair by age 25, Ashley persevered to become a competitive cheerleader in college and later a professional fitness instructor.
Black created the Fasciablaster to address her own fascial pain. Using herself as a test subject, Black developed her soft tissue massage technique targeting strained connective tissues. She has published research in the medical journal Cogent Medicine. This work ultimately led to the Fasciablaster’s creation.
Does the Fasciablaster Work?
Unfortunately, numerous misconceptions exist about fasciae, with some believing fasciae cause virtually all ailments. This stems partly from “fasciae” lacking a precise medical definition relevant to clinical application. Consequently, many use the term to describe various biological structures that may be unrelated.
Inflamed fascia definitely causes pain and stiffness, but whether manual stimulation effectively relieves such pain remains unclear. Some moderate evidence suggests that, particularly for plantar fasciitis, massage can reduce pain, though it’s uncertain whether it addresses the underlying problem. More broadly, muscle massage is an established method for treating certain musculoskeletal pain types.
Many users, including celebrities, claim the Fasciablaster works effectively. However, these remain anecdotal claims without clinical evidence. Whether the Fasciablaster’s alleged benefits stem from specialized fascial techniques or simply standard massage remains unclear.
The Fasciablaster also claims to reduce cellulite appearance. Again, no clinical evidence supports this claim, though some evidence suggests regular deep tissue massages can temporarily diminish cellulite appearance. Some users also report weight gain after using the Fasciablaster.
Additionally, the company faced two class action lawsuits from users claiming the product caused harm and lasting bruises. Neither case reached trial and the company dismissed these claims, but this remains noteworthy information.
The product maintains solid user reviews on both the company website and Amazon, suggesting many find it beneficial. However, this could reflect selection bias, as satisfied customers more likely leave positive reviews.
Where to Buy and Cost
You can purchase the Fasciablaster directly from Ashley Black’s website or through Amazon. It doesn’t appear available at physical retailers yet. The standard Fasciablaster costs $89.00
Fasciablaster: Worth it or Not?
Despite Ashley Black’s inspiring story and purported clinical research, insufficient evidence supports claims that physical fascial manipulation relieves tension or “works out kinks.” Some evidence suggests manual stimulation can temporarily reduce cellulite appearance. Otherwise, the Fasciablaster appears to be a unique massage stick, though several similar options exist for less than the hefty $90 price. If you’re seeking something novel and have disposable income, there’s likely no harm, but otherwise, a standard massager might suffice.
