Myofascial release therapy is an integral part of massage therapy sessions. As the name suggests, this hands-on manipulation technique releases tightness and sensitivity from the affected myofascial tissues. In other words, myofascial release is a physical therapy that treats myofascial pain syndrome.
The myofascial tissue is the single longest-running tissue that forms a stringy network throughout your body. The network keeps your organs in place and connects bones, muscles, and joints. Tension often develops in specific trigger points within your myofascial tissue, causing pain and tightness in various parts of your body.
How Myofascial Release Therapy Works?
A wide range of health practitioners can provide this therapy such as chiropractors, physical therapists, or massage therapists. First, the therapist applies light pressure on your myofascial tissue to identify areas that feel rigid or stiff. These areas are known as trigger points and are usually the origin of myofascial pain.
The professional then gently stretches or massages the areas to loosen the muscles and release pressure from the affected tissue. This is repeated on the same trigger point several times unless the tension is released completely.
Myofascial pain usually occurs far away from its origin. Physical therapists identify the exact area and implement myofascial release accordingly. Headaches, for instance, are often treated with myofascial therapy where the therapist massages and stretches the affected areas around your neck.
When Do You Need Myofascial Release Technique?
You are most likely to benefit from myofascial release therapy if you have tightness in the fascial tissues. Fascial tissues are connected to every part of your body in some way or the other. They protect your muscles and enable your body organs to move without any restrictions. Thus, the damage of fascial tissues not only causes pain but also immobility in specific areas of your body.
Common symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome
- Persistent pain
- Muscle knots
- Lack of sleep
- Worsening pain
- Pain that feels like coming from deep layers of muscle
Myofascial treatment is often accompanied by other holistic treatments for the best results. This is highly recommended to regain the function or flexibility that you might have lost due to an injury. Other conditions that can benefit from this treatment include migraines, TMJ disorder, and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
What to Expect From Myofascial Release Therapy Sessions?
As mentioned earlier, myofascial therapy is mostly a part of massage therapy sessions. The therapist explains the entire procedure to you in the first appointment. They identify trigger points using light pressure on the affected myofascial trigger points. These trigger points are responsible for limiting your joint and muscle movements.
The massage therapist applies subtle pressure on the affected myofascial tissue throughout your appointments unless you achieve your health goals. The focus initially is to reduce your pain followed by restoring your mobility.
They assess your progress based on the motion you have been able to achieve and your pain levels. The therapist may change the intensity of pressure and stretching exercises accordingly.
How can Myofascial Treatment Benefit You?
The fascia is like a network of connective tissues and is highly responsible for the optimal movement and function of your body’s organs and structures. If injured or damaged, the fascia can take a toll on your daily lifestyle. Myofascial therapy is the best treatment for restoring mobility and reducing myofascial pain syndrome.
The treatment improves your range of motion, relieves stress, and reduces pain. It relaxes your tight muscles and boosts the natural healing process of your body. If you are in Brampton and still confused about whether to opt for this treatment or not, have a word with our professional massage therapists.
