What is Myofascial Release?

​Myofascial release is an application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system in order to relieve fascial restrictions. Each restriction is 2,000 lbs. of pressure and the therapist is trained to find fascial restrictions by assessing the body visually for imbalances as well as feeling for restrictions.
The tissue covers the muscles, bones, nerves, organs and vessels down to the cellular level. Fascia is an important tissue in that it permits the body to retain its normal shape and maintain the vital organs in their correct positions.  There can be lots of malfunctions of the system due to trauma, poor posture, or inflammation which can restrict the fascia, resulting in abnormal pressure on these components of the body.

Benefits of Myofascial Release

It has been estimated that over 90% of clients treated by therapists have myofascial dysfunction. The technique of myofascial release is versatile and can be added to many specialty areas and treatment. Some of the treatments that myofascial works well with are:
  • Managing acute or chronic pain
  • Neurologic and movement dysfunction
  • Birth trauma
  • Head injuries
  • Pelvic and menstrual problems
  • Temporomandibular dysfunction
  • Headaches
  • Sports injuries
  • Restrictions of motion
  • Reoccurring injuries
With any massage it is important to drink water, but it is especially important after myofascial work because the fascial system is a container of fluids and a medium of the fluid meaning that this system works most efficiently when the tissue is hydrated.

When Not to Receive Myofascial Release

Always talk to your doctor first if any of these apply to you. Some of these conditions may be able to still receive Myofascial Release if it only applies to a specific area of the body.
  • Malignancy
  • Febrile state
  • Acute circulatory condition
  • Aneurysm
  • Acute Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Sutures
  • Healing fracture osteoporosis or advanced degenerative changes
  • Cellulitis systemic or localized infection
  • Osteomyelitis obstructive
  • Edema
  • Open wounds
  • Hematoma
  • Anticoagulant therapy
  • Hypersensitivity to skin
  • Advanced Diabetes