Myofascial Release
What Is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique often used in massage. The technique focuses on pain believed to arise from myofascial tissues - the tough membranes that wrap, connect and support your muscles.
Theoretically, myofascial pain differs from other types of pain because it originates in "trigger points",which are related to stiff, anchored areas within the myofascial tissue. The pain that a trigger point causes is often difficult to localize, though.
During myofascial release therapy, the therapist locates myofascial areas that feel stiff and fixed instead of elastic and movable under light manual pressure. These areas, though not always near what feels like the source of pain, are thought to restrict muscle and joint movements, which contributes to widespread muscle pain.
The focused manual pressure and stretching used in myofascial release therapy loosen up restricted movement, leading indirectly to reduced pain.
What is fascia?
A form of soft tissue manipulation around the body’s ‘Fascia’ (connective tissue). These tissues surround and support the muscles throughout your body. The pain usually originates from specific points within your myofascial tissues called “trigger points.”
The deep fascia is involved directly with the musculoskeletal system, called the myofascia.
This is not separated from the fascia that also binds around the organs; this could explain
why there why there can be links between organ dysfunction and musculoskeletal pain. This
fascia is made up of a polysaccharide complex called ground substance, which is contained
within a matrix of elastin and collagen fibres, the elastin fibres can stretch and the collagen
fibres have great tensile strength which together gives the fascia great physical potential.
The proportion and distribution of elastin and collagen fibres varies drastically in different
areas depending on the local needs. The arrangement of the collagen and elastin fibres
gradually adapted to meet the physical demands placed on the body. This has resulted in a
complex network of strong collagen bands which wrap around the body in all directions,
giving it its upright shape and form. The muscles are the contractile pockets along these
bands, and that gives the body its ability to create movement. In between these strong and
contractile bands, the fascia is very elastic so it allows the system to move freely. Muscles,
tendons, ligaments and joint capsules are not separate structures as the simple model of the
musculoskeletal system may suggest. They are all just parts of this single fascial network,
and the muscles are only contractile pockets along the strong fascial bands. The muscles
fascia extends to from the tendon, and the fascia spreads out to form the capsules and
ligaments where this reaches a joint, becoming the periosteum at the bone.
Is Myofascial Release Massage Right For Me?
Our Myofascial Release therapy is a safe and effective technique that can help alleviate pain, reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Our skilled therapists use gentle pressure and stretching techniques to release tension in the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and supports your muscles and organs. This can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and increase flexibility and range of motion. Whether you're experiencing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to enhance your physical and emotional health, our Myofascial Release therapy can help. We offer personalized treatment plans that are tailored to your specific needs and goals, and our team of experienced therapists are committed to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness. Contact us today to schedule your Myofascial Release session and experience the many benefits of this transformative therapy.
FAQs for Myofascial Release
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A: Myofascial Release is a manual therapy technique that focuses on releasing tension and tightness in the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles. It involves applying gentle pressure and stretching to release restrictions and restore mobility.
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A: Myofascial Release can be beneficial for various conditions such as chronic pain, muscle tension, fibromyalgia, headaches, sports injuries, and postural imbalances.
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A: Myofascial Release is generally not painful, although some individuals may experience mild discomfort during certain techniques. The therapist will communicate with you to ensure that the pressure applied is within your comfort level.
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A: The duration of a Myofascial Release session can vary depending on individual needs and the area being treated. On average, a session can last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes.
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A: During a session, the therapist will assess your condition, discuss your goals, and perform hands-on techniques to release fascial restrictions. They may also provide guidance on self-care exercises or stretches to support your progress.