Myofascial Release Therapy

Myofascial Release Therapy – What is it?

Myofascial release therapy (MFR) is a manual massage technique. It is frequently used in different types of massages. The technique has been designed specially to target pain that arises from myofascial tissues and is done with expert hand movements.

Myofascial tissues are tough membranes wrapped around the muscles that connect and support them. The myofascial trigger point release therapy focuses on the pain that arises from the trigger points in the body known as Myofascial trigger points. These trigger points are associated with stiff areas anchored within the myofascial tissues.

Oftentimes, the pain is difficult to localize. A myofascial therapist looks for the areas that do not feel movable and elastic under the pressure; but rather feel quite stiff and fixed. They use focused pressure and stretching techniques to ease the restricted pain, which leads to pain reduction.

 

DIFFERENT TYPES OF MFR THERAPY

There are two different types of MFR therapy; active and passive. Here is some brief information on both:

  • Active Myofascial Release Therapy: This type involves the myofascial therapist directing the patient to contract and release certain muscles.
  • Passive Myofascial Release Therapy: In this type, the tension in the patient’s body guides the therapist’s movements.

 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THIS THERAPY?

The benefits are numerous. That’s why it’s widely used by massage therapists around the world. Have a look at the amazing benefits below:

Improves the flexibility and range of motion in joints.

Helps in relieving stress and soreness of the muscles.

Improves blood flow and hydration in tissues.

Restores muscle balance.

Helps in alleviating symptoms of migraines and headaches.

Helps in reducing scar tissue and adhesions that result from surgeries and injuries.

Works as a warm-up for individuals with an active lifestyle.

Helps in alleviating the effects of stress on the body.

Used to address various chronic pain problems (and is often done for prolonged periods).

Calms down the nervous system.

Helps in the overall healing of the body.

 

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM A SESSION?

A myofascial therapist applies gentle pressure (with a lubricant) to restriction points in the connective tissues to release stiffness. You should expect to feel subtle pain during the massage as the therapist applies pressure. The duration of pressure at one point is 5 minutes at one time. An average session lasts between 30 to 50 minutes. You will be asked to wear minimal clothes or a bathing suit during the massage session.

 

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