The Counterstrain Movement
Welcome to The Counterstrain Movement, a podcast where we talk about a little known physical medicine and manual therapy technique that is quietly revolutionizing how people approach recovery - from illness, injury, disease and trauma. It's called fascial counterstrain. Together we will explore where counterstrain comes from, how it works, the many conditions it can treat, and how it can help you.
The Counterstrain Movement
Coaching, Concussions, and the Power of Counterstrain with Amy Griffin
In this episode, Amy Griffin—former U.S. National Team player, veteran coach, and current head of the U.S. Deaf Women’s National Team—shares how her personal experiences with injury and recovery led her to Counterstrain therapy, a modality that ultimately reshaped her approach to healing, coaching, and health advocacy.
She delves into the complexity of the body’s ability to compensate for injury and the often-overlooked role of sleep, memory, and mental health in the recovery process. Amy reflects on her initial skepticism toward Fascial Counterstrain, and how her first-hand experience changed her perspective. She emphasizes the importance of listening—to patients, to athletes, and to the signals our bodies send us—and describes how quality of life, not just symptom management, should be the goal of any recovery approach.
Together, Theora and Amy explore how modern stressors differ from those of the past, and why a holistic view of health is necessary in today’s high-pressure athletic environments. They discuss the lasting impact of concussions, the value of preventive care in sports, and the need to reimagine athlete support systems with long-term health in mind. Amy also offers insight into her advocacy for natural playing fields, and her deep concern for the health risks posed by artificial turf, especially for kids.
Throughout the episode, Amy’s passion for player safety, healing, and whole-person care shines through. Her story is a testament to the body’s capacity to heal, the power of Counterstrain, and the vital role of community support in navigating life after injury.
Guest Bio: Amy Griffin
Amy Griffin is a longtime soccer coach and former U.S. National Team player. A key member of the squad that won the inaugural FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1991, she brings decades of experience both on the field and on the sidelines. Today, she serves as the head coach of the U.S. Women’s Deaf National Soccer Team, where she continues to lead with passion, skill, and a deep commitment to inclusive excellence in the sport.
Get in Touch with Amy:
- Or to add a name to Amy’s List, email amygriff65 (at) gmail (dot) com
Resources:
- Seattle Reign Academy
- Amy On Wikipedia
- Artificial Turf Concerns:
The Bridge Back Project
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- Our Website
- Our Youtube Channel
- Our Instagram
- Our Facebook
Find a Fascial Counterstrain Practitioner Near You:
Credits:
Host: Theora Moench
Editor: Haley Diaz
Executive Producer: Bridge Back Project
Music: bensound.com “New Frontier” - License code: PUUI20THRCM9CSDQ
