What is myofascial release and how does it work?

Myofascial release is a bodywork technique in which the practitioner applies gentle, directional pressure to restricted fascia, to alleviate pain and restore normal muscle function. Fascia is a connective tissue which surrounds every muscle, bone, nerve and organ in the body.

How do I know if I need myofascial release?

If you have muscle soreness from working out and/or from sitting at a desk, a massage could give you the tension release that you need to get rid of the knots and feel better. If you notice persistent pain that doesn’t dissipate even after icing and rest, myofascial release could be a good option.

What are the benefits of myofascial release?

Benefits of myofascial release

• Improve your range of motion.
• Reduce soreness and help assist the tissue recovery process.
• Help the body relax overall.
• Improve circulation.
• Release tension, knots and even stress.

Is myofascial release the same as deep tissue massage?

Myofascial and Deep Tissue Release are both hands-on techniques that involve applying deep, gentle sustained pressure into the fascial connective tissues that are causing pain and lack of mobility.

Can you do myofascial release on yourself?

Using self myofascial release tools at home on a regular basis can help prevent the buildup of tension and stiffness in your body. They are great if you are experiencing some hip pain or leg pain due to limited flexibility or lack of mobility and can be a great addition to your pain management strategy.

Is myofascial release legitimate?

The focused manual pressure and stretching used in myofascial release therapy loosen up restricted movement, leading indirectly to reduced pain. Many studies have found that massage, chiropractic manipulation and similar manual therapies work as well as other treatments for back pain.

What does it feel like when a trigger point is released?

Trigger points feel like little marbles or knots just under your skin. When pressing on trigger points, many people feel no pain or discomfort. Sometimes, trigger points become very sensitive, and some people feel significant pain in areas where they have trigger points. Have you ever had a Charlie horse in a muscle?

What happens if you dont drink water after massage?

When your head, neck and shoulders have been massaged it stimulates the lymphatic system, which in turn drives out toxins. This means water is essential to flush out the toxins, so if you don’t drink water after a massage, you can sometimes experience a slight headache.

Who needs myofascial release?

There are a number of conditions and symptoms that myofascial release therapy addresses. Many patients seek myofascial treatment after losing flexibility or function following an injury or if experiencing ongoing back, shoulder, hip, or virtually pain in any area containing soft tissue.

How do I unlock fascia?

How to improve your fascia health

1. Stretch for 10 minutes a day. Share on Pinterest.
2. Try a mobility program.
3. Roll out your tight spots.
4. Visit the sauna, especially after the gym.
5. Apply cold therapy.
6. Get your cardio on.
7. Try yoga.
8. Keep you and your fascia hydrated.

Who should not do myofascial release?

Contraindications for MFR include – but are not limited to – those with malignancy, aneurysm, acute rheumatoid arthritis, advanced diabetes, severe osteoporosis, and healing fractures. (2) Your physician and physical therapist can help determine whether or not MFR is an appropriate course of treatment for you.

Does myofascial release hurt?

You may feel tired or relaxed after your myofascial massage, however, most people experience an immediate feeling of relief. Aches and pains are common for for around 24 hours after your treatment as the body flushes the toxins that have been released out.

What is myofascial release and what does it treat?

Myofascial release is a type of physical therapy often used to treat myofascial pain syndrome. Myofascial pain syndrome A chronic muscular pain disorder which affects any skeletal muscles in the body. is a chronic pain disorder caused by sensitivity and tightness in your myofascial tissues.

What are the health benefits of myofascial release?

Additional Treatments with Myofascial Release Therapy. By targeting specific areas of the fascial system, myofascial therapy can help prepare patients for more aggressive forms of strengthening, or provide pain relief for patients with restricted flexibility and movement, thus allowing patients to return to normal movement and greater function.

What conditions can myofascial release help?

Myofascial pain syndrome. This is the most commonly treated condition through myofascial release,and it can affect many of your muscles.

Injury. Injuries can also cause muscle stiffness.

Chronic headaches/migraines.

Carpal tunnel syndrome.

Fibromyalgia.

Venous insufficiency.

How does myofascial release help relieve chronic pain?

Since Myofascial Release has been shown to increase serotonin levels, it is very effective in providing relief for people with chronic pain. Myofascial Release helps manage chronic pain through improved sleep. (Detailed research from the AMTA is available here.)