Fibularis Longus and Brevis (peroneals)

Client: side-lying, with pillows under the head and between the lower legs
Therapist: alongside or at the foot of the table

For this fulcrum you will use your forearm, particularly whichever part of the ulna works best for your body/energy mechanics.  This fulcrum involves active movement by the client. Ask client to very slowly and fully flex and extend ankle (e.g. “ Please point your toes and then lift your toes up.”). Explain the movement and have them try it once or twice.  This also gives them the basis for a “feeling comparison” afterward. 

Place your forearm just above the lateral malleolus, take out the looseness.  Have them begin their accompanying movement.  Then with your forearm slowly add additional vectors and deeply effleuraging up through the fibular muscles (you are also affecting the periosteum and the bone itself). While working on the lower 1/3rd of the fibula go a bit more slowly, emphasizing the release of the more tendinous area.  Continue up and clearly disengage just beneath the head of the fibula. 

Purposes:

a) free the fibula

b) lengthen fibularis longus and brevis (peroneals)

c) lessen chronic pronation

d) restore life to lateral longitudinal arch

e) soften the side of the leg

f) free the energy flowing through the leg (particularly through the gall bladder meridian)

g) enhance grounding