21/08/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/193W24BsRx/
THE 3 P’s: PSOAS • PIRIFORMIS • PTERYGOIDS 💜
Three deep stabilizers. Three areas John F. Barnes taught us not to overlook.
When the body doesn’t feel stable, it often grips, guards, and compensates.
In John F. Barnes Myofascial Release, we don’t just chase the painful area. We look for the deeper restrictions influencing the entire system—and the 3 P’s can be important places to assess.
✨ PSOAS — Stabilizes the Spine & Pelvis
Deep in the core, the psoas connects the lumbar spine to the femur. When it becomes guarded or restricted, it can influence the low back, pelvis, hips, posture, and walking mechanics.
✨ PIRIFORMIS — Stabilizes the Pelvis & Hip
Running from the sacrum toward the femur, the piriformis helps control the hip and pelvis. When it’s working overtime, you may experience deep buttock, hip, low-back, or sciatic-type symptoms.
✨ PTERYGOIDS — Stabilize & Control the Jaw
These small, deep muscles help coordinate precise movement of the mandible and TMJ. Clenching, grinding, stress, and protective guarding can create significant tension through the jaw, face, head, and neck.
💜 WHAT DO ALL 3 HAVE IN COMMON?
They’re deep.
They’re powerful.
They help create stability and control.
And when the body is compensating, these muscles can become chronically overworked.
That’s why simply stretching or digging into the “tight muscle” may not be enough.
Why is it tight?
What is it stabilizing?
What restriction is causing it to work so hard?
John Barnes taught us to feel, follow, and treat the fascial restrictions—not force the body into change.
Sometimes the areas holding everything together are also the areas asking us to pay attention.
The 3 P’s: Psoas. Piriformis. Pterygoids.
Don’t forget the stabilizers. 💜
Rowena Cua 💜
Expert JFB Myofascial Release Therapist
Trauma Informed Healing
🌐 www.bodymfr.com
