A device, and the use thereof, for imparting shearing force to superficial and deep fascial layers to improve soft tissue mobility and function. Embodiments of the invention include three general components: a strike head, a force transmitter and a patient interface. A strike force generated at or by the strike head is transmitted by the force transmitter (and normalized/modulated in the case of the force modulator version of the force transmitter) to the patient interface and then to patient tissue.
