What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial Release (MFR), is a full body, hands on technique that releases the fascial system. The myofascial release approach is an intensive, generally mild and gentle form of stretching performed by qualified therapists who have been highly trained. There techniques have profound effects upon the body tissues. Because of its gentleness, many individuals wonder how it could possibly work. Because the fascial system is interconnected, symptoms may appear in areas of the body one might assume are unrelated to the actual restricted area. Myofascial restrictions do not show up on any of the standard tests (x-rays, CAT scans, MRI's etc.) so these myofascial restrictions have been ignored or misdiagnosed.
For Example; When scars harden in one area following injury, inflammation, disease, surgery, etc. it can put tension on adjacent pain-sensitive structures as well as on structures in far-away areas. Some patients have pain symptoms that appear to be unrelated to the original or primary complaint. These symptoms can now often be understood in relationship to our understanding the fascial system. Effective MFR treatment involves various techniques that are frequently applied to several different areas of the body. This is, therefore, a whole body approach to evaluation and treatment.
What conditions may benefit from myofascial release?
Fascial tissue is located throughout your body, so adhesions and activated trigger points anywhere within this tissue can affect a wide number of physiological systems and structures. Our physical therapy team has found myofascial release to be effective for numerous conditions, including:
- Sciatica
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Medial and lateral epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow, respectively)
- Whiplash
- Osteoarthritis
- Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
- Headaches and migraines
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
- Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder