Myofascial Release
What is Fascia?
Fascia is a three dimensional, continuous web of connective tissue that runs throughout our bodies from head to toe, covering bones, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, the spinal cord and brain and internal organs. It provides structure and support and acts as a shock absorber to absorb force and help prevent injuries. Fascia is made of elastin fibers, collagen fibers and a gelatinous ground substance. Healthy fascia is well hydrated and will glide effortlessly in all directions in the body.
What are Fascial Restrictions?
Fascial restrictions are areas in the body where the elastic-collagenous complex has become shortened and solidified, such as scar tissue. Because the fascia is continuous, restrictions in one area of our body can pull on another area and cause tightness, pressure, discomfort or significant pain. People often report feeling “stuck” or “bound down”. Think of a knitted sweater and what happens to the rest of the sweater if a piece of the yarn is pulled in one direction. These restrictions are often caused by chronic poor posture, surgery, injuries or traumas, inflammation and repetitive stress. Restrictions are often asymmetric within the body and can pull the body off center and out of its natural alignment. Your therapist will start by evaluating your posture, flexibility, strength and functional movements to find those areas of greatest restriction.
What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial release is a hands on therapy technique where gentle to deep sustained pressure is applied directly to the fascial restriction until the body begins to soften and let go. It takes at least 90-120 seconds (and frequently longer) to get down to the collagenous barrier of the fascia and see long term results. It is not always comfortable but most clients report “it’s a good hurt and feels like it needs to happen”. There should be increased motion and function and decreased pain and stiffness after an MFR session. You may experience soreness for about 24-48 hours after your session but soon your body will begin to feel lighter and less restricted and start to move comfortably again. Hydration and movement are keys to maintaining healthy fascia.
Are there Self Myofascial Release Techniques?
Yes! Your therapist will teach you how to lengthen and stretch your fascia/muscles to benefit you the most. You can use tools such as foam rollers and balls to assist the techniques. Again, there is a time element. You cannot rush the fascial release. Deep breathing exercises and calming the nervous system helps facilitate the process.
Who Can Benefit from Myofascial Release?
Almost anyone! Common diagnoses we treat are low back pain, SI joint dysfunction, sciatica, hip pain, knee and ankle pain, plantar fasciitis, neck pain, headaches, TMJ dysfunction, shoulder pain, elbow tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, athletic injuries, mastectomy pain, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome and scoliosis. MFR works very well for those who feel they have restricted mobility from scarring post surgery or injury and post radiated tissue. The sooner we can see you after your injury or surgery, the faster you can get moving again and back to your life.
