Myofascial release is a form of stretching and massage. It is different from normal massage which tends to focus just on the muscles. It involves a gentle stretching and compression which can also be known as soft tissue mobilization.
This treatment focuses on the network of connective tissues that hold the body together which is known as the fascial system. If this network is restricted in any way at all it can cause impaired circulation, pain, reduced flexibility and fatigue.
Fascial release helps to improve flexibility, increases endurance, increases blood flow and circulation and improves flexibility.
A therapist will find which area of the body is tight and then a light stretch is applied to this area. Once the tissue has relaxed then the stretch is increased. This is done until the complete area is fully relaxed.
The patient’s body is what the therapist uses as a guide. By figuring what the recipient needs, force, direction and length of strength is determined.
Fascial Pain Dysfunction can be extremely helpful to numerous physical problems. Below are just of few illnesses that can be treated.
- Whiplash
- Headaches
- RSI or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic Pain
- Back problems such as chronic or acute pain
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
- Adhesions
- Hip pain
- Scoliosis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sciatica
- Scar tissue reduction
Does Myofascial Release Treatment Hurt?
This treatment should not cause any pain at all. It is a gentle form of therapy which is used when a client is in a lot of pain as it does not cause aggravation to sensory nerve receptors. At times clients fall asleep during the treatment as it can be extremely relaxing.
What Is Worn During MFR?
MFR requires quite a large amount of movement which is not usually seen in traditional massage therapy. Clients are usually made to wear a bathing suit or underwear as the least clothing the client is wearing the better. The therapist needs to be able to access much of the body surface to be able to manipulate inner structures.
Myofascial techniques usually come in two forms:
- Active which the therapist has the client assist during the treatment by bodily manipulation.
- Passive is the approach used when the therapist requires the patient to remain totally passive during the whole treatment.
Myofascial release is a very safe and effective technique that is an excellent option for people in chronic pain who would be unable to cope with a traditional form of massage.