Myofascial Release

Myofascial release is a form of hands-on physical therapy that targets the soft tissues of the human body, with the goal of improving mobility and reducing myofascial pain.Myofascial pain has two primary sources, arising from either a skeletal muscle or from connective tissue such as a tendon or ligament, which is constricted by overly-tight fascia (the specialized connective tissue layer surrounding the muscles, bones and joints, which runs throughthe entire body). Myofascial pain may also arise directly from damaged myofascial tissue, often at a "trigger point”, where muscle fibers contract. Damaged fascia can have a variety of causes, including repetitive strain disorders, as well as physical trauma from a direct muscle injury. Myofascial pain can also occur when a patient has a chronic inflammatory disease like fibromyalgia, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Myofascial may also be worsened or aggravated under certain conditions, including psychological stress, cold external temperatures and postural imbalance.

Myofascial release is a manual physical therapy treatment method, with a duration of 30 and 50 minutes per session, occurring daily or several times per week, for up to several months at a time.Myofascial release primarily relies on muscle relaxation techniques, in addition to muscle stretching techniques, to elongate the muscles and eliminate muscle tightness. Techniques such as "foam rolling”, where a large foam cylinder is used to reduce myofascial restrictions is also frequently used in myofascial release therapy. The end result of the myofascial release treatment process is increased blood flow, increased lymphatic circulation, and ultimately less pain for patients in the targeted area.

Myofascial releaseis used to treat a wide range of conditions, disorders and diseases, including: back strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, cervical pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, disc problems, fibromyalgia, lower back pain, migraine headaches, myofascial pain syndrome, neck pain, pelvic pain, sciatica, sports injuries, tender points, thoracic back pain, thoracic outlet syndrome, TMJ dysfunction, trigger points and whiplash. Many women’s health issues may also be treated using myofascial release techniques, including:endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, lymphedema, mastectomy pain, menstrual problems, painful intercourse, pelvic floor pain, pudendal nerve entrapment and vulvodynia.

Please contact us if you would like more information about myofascial release therapy.