What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial Release (MFR) is a physical therapy used to resolve pain and dysfunction within the human body and is fast gaining recognition as the missing link in traditional healthcare. It is a specialised physical therapy that releases restrictions within the fascia.
The fascial system is of great importance. It forms a continuous 3D web which extends, without interruption, throughout the body, surrounding, infusing and protecting all other tissues and allowing us to move without restriction or pain. Like muscle, fascia has the ability to contract and relax, but unlike muscle, fascial restrictions creep insidiously throughout the body, crushing sensitive structures and affecting musculoskeletal function.
Injury causes tension in this system and ultimately pain is felt. Fascial restrictions do not show up on x-rays or scans and therefore often remain undiagnosed.
Conditions it may help
MFR has vast potential for health improvement and is particularly effective for all types of pain, including:
- Chronic pain, general discomfort & muscle spasms
- Back ache & pelvic imbalance
- Sciatica
- Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
- Neck & shoulder pain & tension
- Dizziness & vertigo
- Whiplash
- Headaches
- Jaw discomfort, teeth grinding & clenching
- Frozen shoulder
- Tennis and Golfer’s elbow
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis & heel spurs
- Old tissue scarring
- Sporting injuries
- Trigger Point Pain
- Fibromyalgia
- ME & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- IBS
What to expect
In your first visit your therapist will make an assessment of your posture in order to determine where the restrictions are within your body. This maybe repeated with ongoing treatment in order to determine progress and to highlight new areas to focus on. Postural realignment is achieved, balancing the body’s energy .
Myofascial Release integrates a number of techniques including both light touch therapy and deep soft tissue release. The techniques used, are performed at the site of restriction within the body, which is often distant to where the pain is. Treatment will often promote relaxation and help reduce stress. Other effects include improved circulation and brain function.