About Us
Advancing Myofascial Release through education, care, and community
Dr. Mark Barnes
Founder of the MFR Directory
Dr. Mark Barnes is an Exercise Physiologist and Doctor of Physical Therapy with over 30 years of clinical experience spanning hands-on care, research, education, and digital health innovation. Over his career, he has owned and operated multiple physical and occupational therapy practices while continually advancing a systems-based approach to healing and human resilience.
In 1997, Mark published the landmark paper “The Basic Science of Myofascial Release” in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, one of the first evidence-based explorations of fascia as a dynamic, cybernetic system. This work helped establish the scientific foundation for myofascial release, demonstrating how the fascial–nervous system influences structural integrity, physiology, metabolism, and pain—principles that continue to shape his work today.
Building on this foundation, Mark’s doctoral research pioneered an evidence-based myofascial stretching and yoga program for aging adults. His work showed that a consistent, adapted practice significantly improved balance and core stability while reducing fall risk in adults over the age of 65—highlighting the power of self-directed, fascia-informed care to create meaningful and lasting change.
As the son of John F. Barnes, PT, the founder of Myofascial Release, Mark was immersed early in a revolutionary hands-on approach to healing. Through Myofascial Release & Fascial Regulation: A Systems-Based Approach to Healing, he carries this legacy forward by advancing the work beyond technique alone. This course addresses a critical question his father’s work anticipated—but did not fully explore: how patients create change and adapt during the 99% of life that happens outside the treatment room. The framework integrates fascia science, nervous system regulation, metabolism, breath, hydration, and behavior change for both providers and patients into a cohesive roadmap for deeper, more sustainable outcomes.
Mark is also the co-founder of Somatic Reboot, which now serves as the foundation of his work. Somatic Reboot is a science-backed, experiential approach designed to help people move from stuck and stressed to grounded and thriving. It integrates clinical care, education, and self-guided tools to reset the fascia–nervous system, empowering patients to actively participate in their own healing and long-term resilience.
Outside of work, Mark finds balance and inspiration surfing the waves of Mexico.
Discover the background and philosophy of the founder of Myofascial Release and the principles that guide this work worldwide.
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The MFR Directory Works!
The MFR Directory is a marketing tool for over 1,000 providers. With 1 million unique site visits and 180,000 leads and growing, providers rely on the Directory to build their businesses and patient community.
Rachael Peizer, M.P.T.
MFR Therapist
The MFR directory is a great value for any practitioner who is specializing in Myofascial Release. Being on the MFR directory has been the only advertising that I've needed to keep my myofascial practice full and with a waiting list. I regularly receive inquiries from folks who have found me on the MFR directory. They are usually wonderful clients who already know about MFR and therefore are a great fit for my practice and are ready to schedule.
Maureen McCloskey, MSPT
MFR Therapist
The directory is the only "marketing" that I use since I opened my doors in 2014. Despite not having a business website, my schedule is always full for several weeks out. Not only do I receive frequent contact from people who are interested in making an appointment, but they are already well-informed about the work since the directory is linked to John's comprehensive MFR website. It's been a valuable referral source.
This site was developed by Dr. Mark Barnes to help people find the best MFR therapist for their unique needs. We provide an easy way to search for MFR trained therapists, free of cost, and without the frustration of popups and advertisements.
This site lists only therapists trained on the John F. Barnes technique, giving you, the patient, assurance that you are being treated by the best set of therapists who continually maintain their education in Myofascial Release.
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