Myofascial release is yet another modality in the realm of Western massage that is incorporated into Denver Integrative Massage School’s 600 hour CMT.
What is Fascia?
Fascia is a densely woven covering that weaves and winds it’s way through every muscle, bone, nerve, artery, vein and our internal organs. It is connective tissue that creates a continuous sheath, literally from head to toe. Some describe it as a spider web or sweater. When muscle fibers are injured or recurrent trauma is invoked on one part of the body due to repetitive motion, the tissue becomes short and tight. Therefore, the result is that stress can be transmitted to other parts of the body that seem unrelated to the area of where the injury has occurred.
Myofascial Release Technique
Through the use of this highly specialized technique of myofascial release, the therapist is able to loosen and lengthen the fascia in a particular area. Therapists use knuckles and elbows to create long, manual stretching of the fascia in order to reach the deep tissue. This therapy can be incredibly beneficial for any number of conditions, including those trying to manage pain. Most people find that it helps to eliminate pain in muscles and increase range of motion.