Myofascial Release
Within the body is a large, interrupted web of connective tissue that holds every muscle, bone, organ, blood vessel and nerve fiber in place. This tissue, known as fascia, not only provides structure to the body but is a sensory organ and has nerves that make it nearly as sensitive as skin.
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Fascia is absolutely fascinating and a rather new field of discovery in the scientific community. For the longest time, researchers cut past fascia to get to muscles, thinking it was nothing more than a sheet of tissue. Now, we understand what an amazing role this seemingly simple organ plays.
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Fascia lessens friction, eases muscle tension and helps transfer force across the body. Fascia binds the body together and allows it to function as one unit.
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Healthy fascia is slippery, smooth and stretches with the body as it moves. Unhealthy fascia thickens and restricts movement in the body as it becomes stickier, drier and tighter. Unhealthy fascia can cause immense pain in the body, known as myofascial pain syndrome.
What is
Myofascial Release?
Myofascial release is a type of manual therapy that treats myofascial pain syndrome - a chronic pain disorder that causes sensitivity and tightness in fascial tissue. By freeing restrictions and adhesions in fascial tissue, fascial pain is able to dissipate.
How is Myofascial Release Performed?
Where massage uses a range of strokes and pressure, MFR uses gentle, sustained holds to gently stretch and release fascial tissues. A hold is held until the release is felt. The release is often times referred to as the 'melt' because it feels like butter melting through your hands.