Myofascial Release-What Is It & How Does It Work?
What is Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR)?
Myofascial release is a type of manual therapy that uses sustained, graded pressure and stretch on the fascia to release the tension and relieve the pain.
Myofascial release is mostly a hands-on therapeutic technique but it can also be done with elbows and other tools. Myofascial release treatment is often used in combination with other therapies, such as exercise therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care, or other physical therapy modalities.
Myofascial release is a safe and effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain. It can help improve your range of motion, reduce pain including creating significant positive impact in chronic musculoskeletal pain and increase your overall quality of life. If you are experiencing myofascial pain, talk to your therapist to see if it’s right for you.
Our therapists at Kinesis Physiotherapy Rehabilitation Centre have extensive experience using advanced myofascial release techniques. We use a combination of techniques, to help our patients find relief from their pain. Contact us today to book an appointment.
What Is Myofascial Tissue?
Fascia is the connective tissue that covers and supports the muscles in your body. It is made up of collagen, elastin, and water, and it helps to give your muscles their shape.
When the fascia is healthy, it is flexible and can move easily. However, when it becomes tight or damaged, it can cause pain in the muscles and other tissues. You may hear it referred to as knots, adhesions, or scar tissue. Myofascial release is a therapy that helps release /mobilizes the fascia and relieves pain.
But what causes the fascia to become tight or damaged? The most common causes are repetitive motions, injuries or old trauma such as falls, accidents, sports injuries and habitual postures. For example, if you work at a computer all day, your muscles adapt to your posture may become tight or shortened from sitting in the same position for long periods. There are also some schools of thought that chronic stress can cause myofascial pain. A lot is being done in this field to explore and understand fascia, pain and treatment.
When you injure your muscles, the fascia can become tight and uncomfortable. Our bodies learn to compensate for the injury, which can cause muscle imbalances and pain.
What Is Myofascial Tissue?
Fascia is the connective tissue that covers and supports the muscles in your body. It is made up of collagen, elastin, and water, and it helps to give your muscles their shape.
When the fascia is healthy, it is flexible and can move easily. However, when it becomes tight or damaged, it can cause pain in the muscles and other tissues. You may hear it referred to as knots, adhesions, or scar tissue. Myofascial release is a therapy that helps release the fascia and relieves the pain.
The Benefits of MFR Therapy
Myofascial release therapy can help to:
- Relieve pain
- Improve range of motion
- Increase flexibility
- Reduce stress and tension
- Improve circulation
- Improve posture
- Reduce inflammation
As our bodies adapt to injuries and pain, we often begin to compensate for the imbalances in our muscles, and this can lead to more pain and further injury. Think of it like this. If you injure your shoulder, you tend to protect it and you will notice or be told you have changed the way you move your shoulder. This adaptation becomes habitual causing a change in the normal length and tension relationship we have in our muscles which in turn leads to overuse and strain causing pain. MFR therapy helps correct these imbalances and restore our bodies to their natural, healthy state.
Myofascial release therapy can be used to treat a range of conditions, including:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- TMJ
- Sciatica
- Migraine headaches
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Plantar Fasciitis
If you have been searching myofascial release therapy near me, or feel the need for your body to experience some freedom in movement and relief from pain contact Kinesis Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre. We offer MFR Therapy as well as, physiotherapy, acupuncture, foot care and chiropractic treatments. Schedule an appointment by calling (905) 493-9199 or fill out the contact form.
Myofascial Release For Sciatica
Your physical therapist may recommend self-massage techniques that you can do at home to help relieve your pain.
These techniques include:
- Foam roller
- Massage balls
- Stretching
- Hands-on treatment
Consistency Is Key
To see the full benefits, it is important to be consistent with your myofascial release therapy.
Your therapist will design a treatment plan that is specific to your needs. This may include weekly sessions, as well as home exercises and self-massage techniques.
Your home exercise program is designed to be simple to help you to be consistent with it. It is best to do it every day. This will help to keep the fascia healthy and prevent pain.
Self-Myofascial Release Techniques
MFR therapy is generally safe and has few side effects. However, as with any treatment, there are some risks.
Risks of myofascial release therapy include:
- Bruising
- Soreness
- Muscle stiffness
- Fatigue
Most of these side effects are mild and will resolve on their own. Discuss with you therapist regarding side effects and risks so you are well informed and comfortable about making this choice of treatment
Risks of Myofacial Release Therapy
MFR therapy is generally safe and has few side effects. However, as with any treatment, there are some risks.
Risks of myofascial release therapy include:
- Bruising
- Soreness
- Muscle stiffness
- Fatigue
Most of these side effects are mild and will resolve on their own. If you experience severe side effects, such as muscle weakness or paralysis, seek medical help immediately.
When to Avoid Myofascial Release Therapy
Myofascial release therapy should not be used if you have:
- An active infection
- A hernia
- Cancer
- Severe Osteoporosis
- Severe or complicated Fractures
If you are pregnant, please consult your healthcare provider before starting myofascial release therapy.
Myofascial release therapy is a safe and effective treatment for myofascial pain. It can help improve your range of motion, reduce pain, and increase your overall quality of life. If you are experiencing myofascial pain, talk to your doctor or physiotherapist to see if myofascial release therapy is right for you.
Kinesis Physiotherapy Rehabilitation Centre is a Whitby physiotherapy clinic well-known for our comprehensive treatment program and commitment to helping our patients live pain-free. We serve our clients in the Region of Durham, Ontario and beyond. We use a combination of techniques, including myofascial release, to help our patients find relief from their pain.
To schedule an appointment, call (905) 493-9199 or fill out the contact form. We look forward to helping you get on the road to recovery.
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