Myofascial Release: How Myofascial Release Works

Myofascial release (MFR), also known as myofascial release therapy, is a form of physical therapy used to treat fascial restrictions and chronic pain disorders, such as myofascial pain syndrome, plantar fasciitis, fibromyalgia, migraines, sciatica, and carpal tunnel syndrome. MFR can provide pain relief to various parts of the body, and is an effective means of alleviating neck pain and lower back pain.

Myofascial release is most commonly administered by massage therapists, though medical practitioners and chiropractors may also offer it. When administering myofascial release, the masseuse will search for tight fascia throughout the whole body and use sustained pressure to release tension in problem areas.

There are several possible benefits of myofascial release treatment.

1. 1. Relief from chronic pain: Myofascial release therapy targets adhesions through deep tissue massage to provide potential relief from pain, soreness, and muscle spasms.
2. 2. Promotes whole-body wellness: Healthy soft tissue supports a full range of motion and can help prevent injury. Releasing tension in myofascial trigger points can help remedy dysfunction in myofascial tissues throughout the body.
3. 3. Can improve your flexibility: You can use self-myofascial release (such as foam rolling) to improve your range of motion by reducing muscle tightness, making it easier to bend and stretch. This can improve your ability to practice bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, and push-ups.

Consider these limitations of myofascial release therapy.

1. 1. Can exacerbate injury when practiced improperly: Proper form is crucial when practicing self-myofascial release. Foam rolling or massaging bone, torn ligaments, or injured muscles can cause further harm. Learn how to release tension in your fascia with proper form.
2. 2. Not ideal for individuals with severe medical conditions: Myofascial release is not recommended for patients with severe osteoporosis, advanced diabetes, acute rheumatoid arthritis, malignancies, and bone fractures. Consult a healthcare professional before receiving myofascial release treatment.
   

Fascia forms a sheath of connective tissue around individual muscles throughout the entire body. Tight fascia can be a result of physical trauma, such as an injury or surgery. It can also be a result of inactivity or habitual poor posture. There are several manual therapy methods that can help keep fascia flexible and healthy.

• Physical therapy: Physical therapists provide bodywork exercises that can help alleviate back pain and other soreness related to tight fascia.
• Massage therapy: Massage therapy targets trigger points in the body to help relieve pain and ease tension. It also increases blood flow to muscle fibers, which can improve the elasticity of your fascia.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncturists can target pain points by strategically placing needles in fascial tissue.
• Heat therapy: Applying heat to sore muscles can help relax the fascia, improving your range of motion and reducing muscle pain.
• Foam rolling: Foam rolling, or massaging your muscles with the help of a foam roller, helps stretch and loosen your fascial tissue.

Myofascial release has become a common practice in the field of sports medicine, chiropractics, and various types of massage therapy. Though it appears that myofascial release works for many individuals, evidence to support its effectiveness remains mostly anecdotal. If you're experiencing pain, consult a healthcare professional before seeking myofascial release therapy.

If you have a previous or pre-existing health condition, consult your physician before beginning an exercise program. Proper exercise technique is essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of an exercise program, but you may need to modify each exercise to attain optimal results based on your individual needs. Always select a weight that allows you to have full control of your body throughout the movement. When performing any exercise, pay close attention to your body, and stop immediately if you note pain or discomfort.

To see continual progress and build body strength, incorporate proper warm-ups, rest, and nutrition into your exercise program. Your results will ultimately be based on your ability to adequately recover from your workouts. Rest for 24 to 48 hours before training the same muscle groups to allow sufficient recovery.

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