Anatomy

Why a surface map has limits

The difference between locating a region and identifying a treatment target.

The anatomy index includes small muscles, broad muscle groups, tendons, fascia, and deep structures. Those are useful research topics, but they are not equivalent targets for self-massage.

A name is not proof of isolation

When a source calls a movement a “soleus release” or a “psoas release,” that name describes its intended target. It does not by itself show which tissues receive pressure or explain a change in symptoms.

Why some entries have no instructions

The diaphragm, deep abdomen, pelvic floor, eyes, and throat entries provide context and source trails. Our review has not established a suitable general self-pressure protocol for those entries. Professional treatments mentioned by a paper are not automatically home exercises.

Use the map as an index

Choose a region to see what is available. Follow the dedicated guide for positioning when one exists. If the page contains only research, it is an invitation to read further rather than to improvise a tool placement.

There is no requirement to find and release every structure. The library is organized around useful questions, not a checklist of tissues that must be treated.

Sources & further reading

Cleveland Clinic — Myofascial Release Therapy ↗França et al. — Internal biomechanics and myofascial release (2024) ↗

Source-linked educational summary · Updated November 8, 2026 · No individual clinician review