Myofascial Release

Melt Away Tension and Pain
Imagine a spiderweb woven throughout your body, connecting your muscles, enveloping them, supporting them, and influencing their movement. The fascia is a web-like network of connective tissue that plays a crucial role in your body’s health and function. When this fascia becomes tight or restricted, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. This is where myofascial release (MFR) comes in.

What is Myofascial Release?
MFR is a gentle, hands-on technique that addresses pain and dysfunction by releasing restrictions in the fascia. Unlike traditional massage, which focuses on manipulating the muscles, MFR targets fascia directly. Therapists use sustained pressure and gentle stretching techniques to elongate and soften the fascia, allowing it to return to its natural state of fluidity and elasticity.
A low load (gentle pressure) applied slowly will allow a viscoelastic medium (fascia) to elongate.

The benefits of MFR are numerous and can include:
• Reduced pain: MFR can effectively reduce pain caused by trigger points, muscle tension, and fascial restrictions.
• Improved range of motion: By releasing tightness in the fascia, MFR can improve your flexibility and range of motion, making it easier to move with greater ease.
• Enhanced athletic performance: MFR can help athletes improve performance by reducing pain, improving flexibility, and optimizing fascial function.
• Stress relief: MFR can promote relaxation and stress relief by calming the nervous system and reducing tension in the body.
• Improved posture: MFR can help improve your posture by addressing fascial imbalances contributing to poor posture.

What to Expect During a Myofascial Release Session
A typical MFR session will last about 60-90 minutes. During the session, the therapist will talk to you about your pain and goals and then perform a physical assessment to identify areas of fascial restriction. They will then use their hands to apply gentle pressure and sustained stretches to the restricted areas. The pressure should be firm but not painful. You may feel some discomfort as the therapist works on tight areas, but this is usually temporary.

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, MFR can also be helpful for:
• Chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome
• Headaches and migraines
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis
• Post-surgical pain

To schedule an appointment, call

208.290.6133