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Massage Therapy

What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial release is a highly specialized and very effective hands-on stretching technique used by practitioners and physical therapists to eliminate pain and restore range of motion. It is considered by many to be a type of soft tissue massage which incorporates the stretching and massage of connective tissue (fascia) throughout the body.

The practice of myofascial release is based on an understanding of the “fascial” system. The fascial system is a thin, densely woven connective tissue in the body which looks similar to a spider’s web. It surrounds and interpenetrates the entire body, including the bones, muscle, nerves, arteries, veins, internal organs, the brain and spinal cord. Fascia provides stability, support and protection to the internal body, and acts to hold all of the “pieces” in place. When healthy, fascia has the ability to stretch and move without restriction. When an injury occurs, or there is scarring or inflammation, the surrounding fascia tightens, restricting movement, and becoming a source of tension within the body. Poor posture and repetitive stress injuries will also cause changes in the fascial system over time, restricting motion or applying excessive pressure in certain areas.

Tightness and restriction in one area of the body can be transmitted through the fascia to other parts of the body, causing pain and unexpected symptoms elsewhere.

Myofasical release techniques involve finding the area(s) of tightness (called myofascial trigger points). Treatment usually begins with a gentle massage which is designed to warm and loosen muscles. As the therapist begins, they identify areas of tension which require further attention. The fascia is then lightly and gently stretched in small areas at a time to release tightness. The therapist waits for the tissue to relax, and then increases the stretch. This process is repeated until the area being treated is fully relaxed, at which time the therapist moves onto the next area. The amount of stretch, how much force to use, the direction of the stretch, and how long to stretch, is guided by feedback which the therapist feels from the patient’s body.

Myofasical release is commonly used to treat the following conditions:

- Back strain - Carpal tunnel syndrome - Scars and scar tissue - Chronic cervical strain - TMJ dysfunction - Dizziness and vertigo

- Fybromyalgia - Headaches - Plantar fasciitis - Trigger points - Whiplash

Both traditional and alternative therapists embrance the use of myofascial release to reduce chronic pain and rehabilitate a wide range of injuries. This is especially so with patients who have not responded to more traditional forms of treatment. It is often incorporated into pain management and physical therapy plans.

What Should I Expect?
A myofascial release session will typically last about 1 hour. The therapist will start the session by discussing your medical history, current medications, other treatments in progress, and details on the actual condition being experienced. A physical examination will then be conducted which includes an analysis of posture, the degree of restriction in movements, and pain experienced.

A myofascial release therapist will be able to find sore spots by touch. Sometimes, the patient has grown so accustomed to these spots that they have become unaware of them until they are located by the therapist, and suddenly soreness and sensitivity is felt when they are located. Myofascial release is cumulative and these areas of tightness decrease with treatment. Homework is often given to the patient to address changes in posture and "movement awareness" as myofascial release requires re-education of the body. As therapy progresses, the patient’s body begins to recognize and "remember" the new posture and lessened muscle tension, resulting in the changes lastsing longer and longer. The brain gradually accepts these changes as the new “normal” you. Progress is measured by a decrease in the patient's pain and by an improvement in overall movement and posture.

Sometimes the therapist only uses two or three fingers to stretch a small part of a muscle. Patients may also be manipulated into a wide variety of poses. Deep, rhythmic breathing is advised in conjunction with the stretches for maximum benefit.

Sometimes myofascial release can feel quite intense, especially when treating significant amounts of tension and stress. Myofascial release should not, however, be painful. Many patients find it to be a very gentle and relaxing treatment. Some fall asleep during treatments. After the session, some clients experience slight stiffness and soreness, which will usually diminish over the next couple of days. Drinking large amounts of water on the day of and several days after treatment will help to help prevent excessive soreness.

Regular treatments of myofascial release can improve posture, ease areas of muscle soreness, and improve flexibility. As with any course of alternative therapy, patients should consult a doctor before choosing to undergo myofascial release to avoid conflicts with medical conditions.

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