What you need to know about the possibly health damaging fad "Fasciablasting"

What you need to know about the Fasciablaster and the popular Fasciablasting fad sweeping across facebook.

Please take note of the side effects, level of customer service and "scientific studies"

What Is a FasciaBlaster?

The FasciaBlaster is a device designed by Ashley Black that supposedly reduces or eliminates cellulite, it is supposed to do this by manipulating the layers of fascia that sit just under your skin.

Fascia is important connective tissue that surrounds your muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and organs, and over time your fascia can become stiff, twisted and polluted with toxins.

There is a developing school of thought that this messed-up fascia can then create a laundry list of health problems like poor circulation, blocked nerve activity, pain, reduced muscle performance and even dreaded cellulite.

Myofascial release has long been performed by trained professionals and does require some knowledge of the lymphatic and adrenal systems to avoid damaging these delicate organs.

The FasciaBlaster is supposedly designed to break up the fascia and restore it to its natural, healthy state.

At least, that’s how the story goes... or in other words "But wait there's more".......

There is another school of thought and some anecdotal evidence based on hundreds of women coming forward, shows that messing with your fascia without knowing how or being trained or doing so aggressively can create a cascade of health issues from hormone disruption and adrenal fatigue to worse case possibly dislodging a clot causing a stroke.

The terms and conditions alone listed on the website of the inventor should be enough to give people pause about its use.

https://www.fasciablaster.com/pages/terms

How has such a dangerous and falsely advertised product stayed on the market? Advertising, marketing, social media frenzy, as well as shady business practices could be part of it.

Ms. Blacks conduct online has been unprofessional, to say the least, she certainly has shown she has had no problem wallowing in the mud along with her detractors.

How Did the FasciaBlaster Start?

The original FasciaBlaster is the one that started it all and was called the lumpbuster before becoming the fasciablaster. It is a rod, about two feet long, with handle grips on the ends and a series of four nubby claws lined up along the center of the device. It looks like four octopus massagers all lined up on a stick (and is where the inventor got the idea)

The premise is you rub it all over your body and cellulite areas, massaging yourself and applying pressure to dig those claws deeper into your body to break up the fascia tissue that lies between your skin and your muscles. By applying more pressure, you can work deep into your muscles to give yourself a deep tissue massage and supposedly initiate a breaking up of adhesions that cause cellulite. You may be actually detaching supporting connective tissue from surrounding organs or severing the important tethering ties to your muscle.


Types of FasciaBlaster

There are a variety of models now available, in different sizes and costs. Ashley Black the self proclaimed "Guru" sells massage oils that go along with her product as well. She also sells a post-blasting cream to soothe the skin after a self-massage session and, as if that’s not enough, there are Ashley Black T-shirts on sale for all those diehard fans who want to spread the word.

Below are the five different FasciaBlaster models for sale on the official website:

• Original
• Mini 1
• Mini 2
• Faceblaster
• and to destroy your fascia faster, the new Masterblaster 

It’s time for science…

Many FasciaBlaster proponents believe that the device can break up fat cells by applying vigorous pressure to the fascia. These fat cells are supposedly then released into the bloodstream and flushed out of the system. But can you physically blast them away? Do FasciaBlaster and weight loss belong in the same sentence? Can you destroy fat cells by applying physical force? Most real scientists say no, not only is it impossible to do so by damaging them from brute force, you are likely to damage your tissues and cause harm in attempting to do so. 

If fat cells can be "popped" and forced into the bloodstream doesn't it follow that other healthy cells can be damaged as well? but for now, most experts agree that diet and exercise are keys to fat loss and that fat cannot simply be massaged or "popped" away.

FasciaBlaster and Cellulite

The inventor of the fasciablaster has coined terms specific to it's use, "gummy bear" "beyond bound" "car wreck" one that seems the most controversial is "worse before better" what this means is many users experience a worsening of cellulite with use and are encouraged to continue using, or "push through" and "trust the process" until eventually they come out of this stage, many have attempted to do exactly that and found that the appearance of cellulite returned every time they stopped for even a short period of time and that in fact their cellulite was worse or had increased with use, appearing in areas where they previously never had any. "Worse before better" never got better after months of scrubbing.

FasciaBlaster and Weight Gain

There have also been reports of a connection between the FasciaBlaster and weight gain. Some proponents claim that temporary weight gain is possible due to fluid buildup under the skin and that this is a good and natural aspect of the healing and detox process.



But some users have experienced significant weight gains of up to 15 pounds or more in a short amount of time that lasted for months rather than days. The cause of this weight gain is not currently known.

In fact, many of the complaints such as the weight gain one, which the inventor denied repeatedly and tried to silence by removing members with such concerns, are now listed in the terms and conditions of the company as possible side effects. What gives with that? those were not there when the 1000's upon thousands of blasters sold in 2016 (per the company info) and only were listed when many women began coming forward saying they were having those "side effects"  yet the company founder and staff still deny those very things are possible.

Saggy, loose, crepe skin seems to be a common complaint as well, there were no warnings this could happen, young or old(er) it has been hit and miss with those who seem to have had good results vs those that have had detrimental results, what this shows is that this device needs to be studied more in an unbiased atmosphere. 

We won't get into the details of how Ms. Blacks appearance has changed just as dramatically as many of her users, but it has not been for the better according to many, she also has repeatedly shifted her stance on exercise and we are told is working on coming out with a new workout dvd to accompany blasting, although she is now heavily promoting weight training (after advising many women to stop since exercise would "jack up their fascia" if not done correctly) now she is promoting some forms of electrolytes as well while developing her own to be offered for sale soon, along with dieting and of course use of at least ONE of her blasters to really get results. This was not how her group of followers nor herself promoted this product initially, which was, any one of any size would have the results of having smooth skin with consistent use. 100%. That is a pretty bold claim to make in this day and age.


FasciaBlaster Results From The Tampa Study

So far, there has only been one study to evaluate the claims about FasciaBlaster results. Ashley Black sponsored the study. The Applied Science and Performance Institute (ASPI) in Tampa, Florida, under the direction of Jacob Wilson, Ph.D, carried it out independently. Nobody has officially published the study as of the time of writing. According to Ashley Black, however, the ASPI is still evaluating the data and preparing the results. She has posted some of the "results" on her website and facebook group for her audience to review.

We’re hesitant to include any information about the study since only the product manufacturer’s website references it. It hasn’t been published by any outside sources, academic journals, or independent websites.

There is also a page on her site with before and after photos of study participants. Much effort seems to have been taken to explain to us how the photos and lighting were not manipulated in any way, but we understand enough about photography to know that brighter exposures wash out details, shadows and textures, and the “after” photos – in almost every single case – are much brighter than the “before” photos. Whether this was done intentionally or not, we cannot say. But facts are facts, and anyone with eyeballs can see that those before and after photos are not exposed consistently.

Despite the claims about her 90-day Tampa study “proving” that her product works, Ashley Black’s official site itself has stated that the ASPI is still analyzing the results and hasn’t made any official statement yet.

FasciaBlaster Real Reviews?

There are hundreds of FasciaBlaster reviews on Amazon.com, on the official website and the Facebook pages of Ashley Black and her FasciaBlaster products. Almost all of them are positive. But there are also a lot of FasciaBlaster bad reviews as well on Amazon, Facebook, and realself.

https://www.realself.com/review/cellulite-treatment-fasciablaster-good-bad-unknown-a-real-review

There have been accusations that Ms. Black pays motivators and moderators to post positive reviews across the web.

There are also several Facebook groups that have popped up with people claiming the product injured them, or simply did not do as it was claimed, which was correct or lessen cellulite. 100's if not thousands claim that Ashley Black’s Facebook group deleted their FasciaBlaster bad reviews or comments or they were blocked from leaving any review in the first place.
Many of them have been blocked from commenting or were removed from the "support group" due to expressing concern over results and some have received legal threats to intimidate and silence them, but more on that below.

FasciaBlaster Potential Side Effects

Fact: With any product, you’re going to see a potential for negative side effects. This is because everyone is different, and everyone reacts differently to certain ingredients, formulas and, in this case, rubbing. Here are some of the more common side effects of FasciaBlaster:

• Hair loss
• Weight gain
• Flu-like symptoms
• Bruising/damaging tissue
• increased pain
• loss of mobility after use

Due to over 100 FasciaBlaster complaints of injuries and health problems reported to the FDA– such as those mentioned above – it was only a matter of time before someone started taking legal action. Not surprisingly, people on both sides of the fence have found it necessary to lawyer up.

What is at issue is the fact that Ms. Black was notified of these issues listed below in the very terms and conditions of the company by her customers and instead of addressing them mounted a campaign to silence and discredit them.

These are the new terms and conditions for use as of 11/16/2017 sadly these were not in place when women began coming forward over a year ago with complaints:

DO NOT USE the FasciaBlaster® line of products if you have a history of or may have blood clots also known as Deep Vein Thrombosis.

DO NOT USE the FasciaBlaster® line of products directly on varicose veins and discontinue use if you develop them during use of the FasciaBlaster(s)

DO NOT USE the FasciaBlaster® line of products if you have recently, are currently, or will be taking blood thinners.

DO NOT USE the FasciaBlaster® line of products on the carotid artery located on both sides of the neck.

DO NOT DIG the FasciaBlaster® line of products on the carotid artery located behind the neck muscles.

If you are pregnant, DO NOT USE the FasciaBlaster® line of products or any other FasciaBlaster® line of products or Ashley Black Company product or service on the belly. Consult an OBGYN and decide with your provider if the FasciaBlaster(s) is right for you.

WARNING: The FasciaBlaster® line of products and other Ashley Black Company products or services can cause a release of toxins, so USE AT YOUR OWN RISK. Please see our scientific findings relative to evidence known as well as unknown. www.AshleyBlackGuru.com/findings

WARNING: Toxins may be pulled out of the tissue and can cause rashes, bumps, redness, irritation, itching, nausea, emotional reactions, vomiting, hormone changes, increased sensitivity, headaches, acute inflammation, changes in cycle, reoccurrence of pre-existing condition, weight gain and other toxicity-associated symptoms. We do not know the exact process which toxins are released.

DO NOT USE the FasciaBlaster® line of products if you are unwilling to bruise, as bruising is a part of the healing process after using the device. I acknowledge that I am responsible for the depth and pressure of the FasciaBlaster® line of products and other Ashley Black Company products or services during SELF-USE.

The Ashley Black Company products and services are intended for SELF-USE. I acknowledge that, if I am a practitioner of any type and choose to use any Ashley Black Company product or services on another individual, I am subject to my state-by-state laws and will practice within my scope and authority under applicable state law.

I acknowledge that if I chose to use the FasciaBlaster® line of products or other Ashley Black Company products or services, I am solely responsible for the outcome and I hereby waive any and all liability, whether in contract or in tort, of the Ashley Black Company and any of its parents, subsidiaries, associated or affiliated entities, and their respective owners, officers, directors, employees, contractors or assigns.

I acknowledge that I am aware that the FasciaBlaster® line of products and other Ashley Black Company services and products can re-establish blood flow and that veins and arteries may be more visible as part of this process.

I understand that Ashley Black Company is a group of innovators in the field of Fasciology, which is not yet a recognized science or license. Ashley Black Company does not identify itself or any of its personnel, as a licensed dietician, nutritionist, certified personal trainer, massage therapist, medical provider, or licensed/certified as a professional in any field. I understand that Ashley Black Company products and services are not a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis and/or medical treatment provided by your doctor, healthcare provider, nutritionist, dietician or other licensed or certified professional, or any trusted specialist.


FasciaBlaster Lawsuits


FasciaBlaster has recently had trouble with several lawsuits, being both on the receiving and serving end of litigation.

Lawsuits by FasciaBlaster company

• In the early months of 2017, Black allegedly threatened to sue multiple women because of their FasciaBlaster complaints. She even had her lawyer send “Cease and Desist” letters to several of them in an attempt to silence them.
  
  Now things have escalated. In May 2017, ADB filed a lawsuit against customer Karen Wallace because she continued to allege that the device caused her injuries. Black also sent copies of that lawsuit to women in “alternative” Facebook groups who were sharing their stories of how the blasters were harming their bodies.
  
  The case has since been dismissed by the court and awaits final ruling, you can read the many legal documents below: 
  
• Link to the lawsuit Ashley initiated against a customer:>
  
  Ashley Black Lawsuit against Karen Wallace
• 
  
  and the motion to dismiss: (granted)>
  
  Karen Wallace motion to dismiss (granted)
  
  
  Link to Ashley Blacks objection to dismissal as well as objection to fees.(Karen Wallace case)
  
  Ashley Blacks objection to dismissal and fees. 
• 
  
• 
  
• A lawsuit was filed and subsequently dropped by Black against a participant in the study who spoke out about her deteriorating results after the 90 day study concluded.
• 
  https://www.law360.com/articles/947302/fasciablaster-sues-user-over-defamatory-facebook-posts

Lawsuits against the Fasciablaster and/or Ashley Black

• A large nationwide class action has been filed you can read more about it here>https://www.truthinadvertising.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Dalton-v-Ashley-Black-Co-complaint.pdf

There are several reputable firms collecting information to file a class action and/or liability lawsuit against Ms. Black. The list keeps growing. If you have suffered injury consider contacting one of these firms.

• 
  Shoop Law
  
  David R. Shoop, Esq.
  Thomas S. Alch, Esq.
  350 S. Beverly Drive
  Suite 330
  Beverly Hills, CA 90212
  Tel: (310) 277-1700
  Fax: (310) 277-8500
  david.shoop@shoop.law.com
  THE SULTZER LAW GROUP P.C.
  Jason P. Sultzer, Esq.
  Adam Gonnelli, Esq.
  Jeremy Francis, Esq.
  85 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 104
  Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
  Tel: (845) 483-7100
  Fax: (888) 749-7747
  sultzerj@thesultzerlawgroup.com
  WALSH PLLC
  Bonner C. Walsh, Esq.
  1561 Long Haul Road
  Grangeville, ID 83530
  Tel:(541) 359-2827
  Fax: (866) 503-8206
  bonner@walshpllc.com
  LEEDS BROWN LAW, P.C.
  Jeffrey Brown, Esq.
  One Old Country Road, Suite 347
  Carle Place, NY 11514-1851
  (516) 873-9550
  jbrown@leedsbrownlaw.com
  
  

A personal injury/class action lawsuit has been filed in the state of California by a select group of disgruntled ex-users.

• 
  https://www.truthinadvertising.org/fasciablaster/

(I update this post periodically and will keep all info in just this one post/page)