Exploring Myofascial Release: The Technique and Benefits

by Shawn Deny Internet Marketing Manager

Myofascial pain is the inflammation and pain in soft tissues of the body. While ‘myo’ means muscles, ‘fascia’ is the connective tissue covering over muscles. It can develop after an injury or muscle strain on one or a group of muscles. However, the pain may develop at a site other than the one affected. This is called a referred pain.

Myofascial pain can be caused by excessive strain to muscles, tendons and ligaments, an injury to the muscle, certain repetitive motions and lack of movement and activity such as that after an injury.

What is Myofascial Release

Myofascial Release is an alternative therapy for myofascial pain and rehabilitation. It is a manual, hands-on therapy in which sustained, gentle pressure is applied for a few minutes. This allows the shortened fascia to elongate and restore the flexibility of the layer. The timing is important as the fascia cannot be forced to elongate by providing extreme pressure for lesser time.

The technique can be used for treating headaches, back pain, shoulder injuries, sports injuries, neck stiffness and arthritic conditions. The pressure applied and the timing depends on the area and condition for which it is being used.

Benefits of Myofascial Release

Improves blood flow

Myofascial release can improve blood flow by removing the tension and the fluid restriction in the fascia. This helps keep the muscle tissue well nourished and active. It also allows the waste material collected from the tissues to be taken away efficiently.

Enhances nerve function

Fascial adhesions are gluing of muscle fibres to fascia. This causes restriction in movement and may cause severe pain when muscles stretch. These adhesions can press on your nerves to create a numbing, tingling or painful sensation. Myofascial release lifts the pressure of these nerves by allowing the fascia to elongate.

Reduces soreness and improves motion

Myofascial release reduces soreness by improving the blood circulation. It also improves the movement and range of motions. Breaking up the adhesions and helping the fascia to elongate, allows free movement of the muscles and fascia. It also helps avoid muscle restriction during exercise. Myofascial release tension from the muscles too, resulting in painless movement.

Myofascial release therapy is ideal for conditions in which movement is adversely affected. Stiff movement after injury or a surgery can be fixed through this form of therapy. Brisbane Livewell Clinic is one of the most excellent clinics to provide this service. Their therapists are well known for their myofascial release therapy and other forms of massages in north Brisbane.