About MYO

The word myofascial refers to muscle tissue (myo) and the connective tissue in and around it (fascia).  When stressed or injured, muscles form trigger points, like small knots, that cause pain, tightness and dysfunction.

By identifying the underlying causes of muscular pain and dysfunction, utilizing an effective non-surgical, non-drug treatment approach, and teaching self-care techniques, the MYO Pain Relief Center helps patients relieve their pain problems, eliminate muscular imbalances, regain flexibility and prevent recurrence.

Our therapists have more than 40 years of collective experience treating and training patients based on the discoveries of the late Dr. Janet Travell (JFK’s personal physician) and Dr. David G. Simons, authors of Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual.  Meet our highly trained team who can help you get back to a pain-free and fully-functioning life.

 

Mary Biancalana

Mary Biancalana, CMTPT, LMT, CPT, MS

Mary is Co-director of Therapy at the MYO Pain Relief Center. She is an educator and healthcare professional with more than 20 years of experience. She is a graduate of the MYO Seminar Series, which she has helped direct for several years.

Mary has contributed to the self-care manual Taking Charge of Fibromyalgia: A Self-Management Program for your Fibromyalgia Syndrome. Mary met Sharon first as a patient in 1999, and the two have collaborated and worked together ever since.

 

 

Sharon SauerSharon Sauer, CMTPT, LMT

Sharon is Co-director of Therapy at the MYO Pain Relief Center. She was trained and mentored by the late Dr. Janet Travell, co-author of Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual. She is a graduate of the Bonnie Prudden School for Physical Fitness and Myotherapy, and was the first to bring myofascial trigger point therapy to Chicago in the mid-80s. Additionally, Sharon has collaborated with the late Dr. Andrew Fischer, a respected author and fellow leader in the field.

Since 1988, Sharon has trained over 1000 practitioners in the relief of myofascial pain and dysfunction. She started the current MYO Seminar Series in 1993, and together with Mary she has developed a body of protocols and training materials unique in the field.

One of the most recognized names in the field, she has treated members of the Lyric Opera Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Bears.