Myofascial Release Therapy

What is Myofascial Release Therapy?

Myofascial release or Myofascial therapy is a technique using deep tissue treatment to affect the fascia or connective tissue between muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints.  It is also effective in the treatment of trigger points.  Trigger points are sensitive areas of the body that stimulation or irritation of causes a specific effect in another part, especially a tender area in a muscle that causes generalized musculoskeletal pain when overstimulated.  Myofascial restrictions, trigger points, or alterations can result from trauma, inflammatory responses, and/or surgical procedures. These restrictions can produce significant amounts of tensile pressure, causing pain and poor movement.  A series of 3-5 sessions is often recommended. The progress of the therapy is gauged by improvements in range of motion, levels of pain or discomfort, and outcome assessment score.

What happens during Myofascial Release Therapy?

Myofascial release therapy treats each patient as an individual with specific hands-on treatments using a variety of techniques and movements to encourage the fascia, muscles, and joints to move.  Pressure is applied to the treatment area according to the patient's tolerance.  This is often perceived as a deep massage. Treatment regions are chosen by a through movement analysis, these regions maybe in an area away from the painful body part. Treatment times can range from 10 mins to 50 mins depending on the regions being treated and scope of the issue.

What ailments can be treated with Myofascial Release Therapy?

Myofascial release therapy treats pain and movement restrictions associated with the fascia, joints, or muscles. This therapy can relieve pain and discomfort all over the body. Some of the common conditions treated by myofascial release therapy include chronic or acute pain in the neck, low back, shoulders, legs or hips. Myofascial release therapy can treat conditions such as TMJ, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, headaches and/or migraines.