What to Know About Myofascial Release Therapy

We’ll explore everything you need to know, what to expect during a session, and the benefits it can provide. We’ll also discuss Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS), its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Finally, we’ll cover how to select a qualified myofascial therapist, plus post-treatment care and its potential risks. So, if you’re ready, keep reading to learn how it can help you find relief.

What is Myofascial Release Therapy?

Myofascial Release Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive form of physical therapy that helps relieve myofascial pain and tension in the body.

During myofascial release (MFR) therapy, we use light pressure and slow strokes to target myofascial tissues — the sturdy layers of connective tissue that surround, support, and protect muscles.

The Purpose of Myofascial Release Therapy

The goal is to reduce myofascial pain symptoms such as muscle stiffness, spasms, trigger points, and headaches. The causes of these symptoms are usually trauma, acute injury, or chronic overuse.

This technique helps to increase blood flow to the affected area and relax myofascial tissues that may have become tight due to injury or overuse.

Benefits of Myofascial Release Therapy

Pain Relief

The primary benefit of MFT is pain relief. This pain relief is often long-lasting and can be experienced immediately after a session.

Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility

Myofascial release therapy also helps to improve the range of motion and flexibility. By loosening tight muscles, MFR can help athletes reach their highest performance levels.

Stress Reduction

Myofascial release therapy can also help reduce stress and increase relaxation by releasing pain-causing tension in the body.

Who can perform Myofascial Release Therapy:

Certified professionals such as physical therapists, massage therapists, and chiropractors are the ones who typically perform MFT. They are specialists in soft-tissue techniques and can provide a safe and effective MFT session.

The therapist will begin with a detailed assessment of your condition and body mechanics, then use manual techniques such as soft tissue manipulation and gentle stretching to target affected areas.

How is Myofascial Release Performed in your own home:

Select a tool: Options include foam rollers, massage balls, and massage sticks. Pick a tool that suits the specific area you wish to target. Choose one that is easy to use and feels comfortable.
Identify: Indicate which body parts you wish to focus on. The back, hips, legs, and shoulders are typical areas to consider.
Apply pressure: Position the tool on the target area, and use your body weight to roll or move the tool back and forth. If you feel a tender spot, pause and hold pressure on it for 30-60 seconds.
Move slowly: Take your time and proceed slowly, emphasizing the most sensitive or tense areas. Refrain from rolling over joints or bony areas.
Breathe: During the process, take deep and slow breaths while concentrating on relaxing your muscles and releasing tension in the fascia.
Repeat: Perform the same process on both sides of your body, devoting 1-2 minutes to each section.

Please be aware that self-myofascial release may not be appropriate for everyone, especially if you have any medical conditions or injuries. If you don’t know whether it’s safe, speak with a qualified healthcare provider beforehand. Additionally, it’s crucial to exercise care and begin gradually to prevent harm or worsening of any preexisting conditions.

Different Techniques of Myofascial Release Therapy

Foam Roller Techniques

Foam rollers can target specific muscles and release trigger points. They are rolled back and forth over the affected area, applying gentle pressure that helps to reduce tension.

Light Manual Pressure Techniques

The therapist may use their fingers or thumbs to apply light manual pressure directly to the area of pain, helping to release tightness and reduce inflammation.

Myofascial Stretching

This type of stretching helps to release tightness and tension in the muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

What To Expect During A Myofascial Release Session?

A typical myofascial release session will involve the therapist assessing the area of pain and ensuring the patient is comfortable. The therapist may use hands-on techniques such as soft manual pressure and stretches to loosen tight muscles and release trigger points.

Post-Treatment Care For Myofascial Release Sessions

After a myofascial release session, it is essential to rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours. You can apply heat or cold therapy in the painful area or any over-the-counter medications to relieve discomfort.

Possible Risks Associated with Myofascial Release Therapy

Widespread Pain

Myofascial release Therapy can cause widespread pain that radiates from the affected area.

Nerve Damage

Myofascial Release Therapy can be dangerous when not done right, and you could get hurt. You should only do this kind of therapy with a person who is qualified and has experience.

Skin Damage

Applying too much pressure can also cause skin damage. It is fundamental to let your practitioner know if you experience any pain or discomfort during the session so that they can adjust their technique accordingly.

Tissue Injury

Applying too much pressure can lead to an injury besides skin damage, such as a muscle tear or ligament strain.

What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS)?

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic pain disorder that affects the myofascial tissues the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the body.
MPS features trigger points and tight knots in muscles caused by tension or overuse that can cause pain and tightness throughout the body.

Causes and Symptoms of MPS

Causes:

Trauma
Acute injury
Chronic overuse

Common symptoms:

Muscle stiffness and spasms
Tenderness
Headaches
Joint pain
Lack of energy
Difficulty sleeping

Diagnosing Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Doctors and therapists usually diagnose myofascial pain syndrome through a physical exam, test results (such as X-rays and MRI scans), and an analysis of the patient’s history. The therapist or doctor may also use myofascial release therapy to assess the condition.

Treatment Options For MPS

Myofascial release therapy is a gentle form of physical therapy that helps relieve pain and tension in the body.
Trigger point injections: Injections of local anesthetics, corticosteroids, or Botulinum toxin to treat pain caused by musculoskeletal issues. Alternatively, dry needling can also be a non-invasive treatment strategy.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation: This non-invasive procedure sends mild electrical pulses through electrodes placed on the skin.
Chiropractic manipulation. This manual therapy uses gentle, specific adjustments to the spine and other joints.
Massage therapy. It is a hands-on technique that relaxes the myofascial tissues and improves muscle circulation.
Sound waves therapy: Myofascial release therapy uses low-frequency sound waves to help relax and break up myofascial restrictions.

You can also get other recommendations to ease myofascial pain, such as dietary and lifestyle modifications.

Conclusion

If you suffer from muscle pain or want to prevent injuries, myofascial release therapy may help. It is a proven treatment to alleviate pain, enhance flexibility and range of motion, and lower stress levels. Choose a licensed and certified practitioner with experience to guarantee a safe and effective session. After each treatment, take care of yourself properly to minimize the risk of injury or complications. Consulting with a skilled therapist and designing an appropriate treatment program can significantly boost your physical well-being and quality of life.

What to Know About Myofascial Release Therapy

What is Myofascial Release Therapy?

The Purpose of Myofascial Release Therapy