Benefits of myofascial release

Benefits of myofascial release

Author: LULU PICART

Myofascial release therapy is growing in popularity and availability throughout the country. Its ability to help reduce chronic pain an inflammation is assisting people to regain their mobility, health, and quality of life.

If you’re new to myofascial release, you may not be aware of the multifaceted benefits of this therapy.

What is fascia?

“Fascia” refers to the strong connective system of tissues that encapsulates and supports every structure in the body. It is full of sensory nerves and is an active support system for your tissues and organs. This web lives between and around your muscles, nerves, joints, ligaments, tendons, organs, and bones. When fascia is healthy, it’s flexible and hydrated; however, when inflamed or injured, the fascia can become hyper-irritated and inelastic, resulting in pain and tightness.

What is myofascial release?

 Myofascial release (MFR) is a hands-on massage technique (“myo” = muscle, “fascial” = fascia). While fascia can be manipulated and stretched on your own, a therapist trained in MFR can expertly locate pockets of rigidity and tightness. They will supply gentle, sustained pressure and to stretch and flex the fascia and release fascial restrictions (tight knots). MFR can be focused on trigger points around tight or sore areas, but because the fascia connects systems throughout your body, it can require attention elsewhere. Because the effects of a fascia restriction can be felt in seemingly unrelated ares of the body, treatment often involves discussing and exploring historical trauma and injuries. 

Who can benefit from myofascial release

 Many people can find relief through myofascial release, including those suffering from:

• inflammation
• compressed nerves (including bulging discs)
• repetitive stress injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome)
• headaches and migraines, and
• physical and emotional trauma.

Other conditions treated by myofascial release therapy include Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder, carpal tunnel syndrome, or possibly fibromyalgia or migraine headaches. Patients who undergo a course of myofascial release sessions will often experience significant benefits.

Pain and inflammation relief

Because myofascial release can release muscle tension and help keep your joints flexible, it offers significant pain relief, even for chronic conditions. While you may experience some soreness during and just after your treatment, most people experience improved range of motion after just one session.

Some people with extreme chronic pain are prescribed antidepressants and muscle relaxers to help with the pain. Myofascial release is a natural pain reliever that allows you to avoid or lessen use of over-the-counter or prescription medication, including medicated liniments.  Over the course of several sessions, and combined with an Intentional healing regimen, it will target the cause of pain and inflammation, not just the symptoms, resulting in a more permanent solution.

Improved range of motion and flexibility

As the fascia relaxes and smoothes, your range of motion will naturally improve. The fascia itself is most healthy when it’s flexible and malleable. Combining myofascial release with consistent, intentional stretching will help keep the fascia lubricated, mobile, and adhesion-free, reducing the chance of future injury.

Relaxation

Most people experiencing any therapy with a “laying of hands” (i.e. massage therapy, reflexology, or MFR) feel a deep relaxation during their session. The natural muscle tension release plus improved circulation can reduce anxiety and stress, helping you achieve a relaxed state.

Emotional release

The relationship between psychological trauma and physical release is still being studied, but for many patients, MFR can trigger emotional responses as it releases trauma stored in the fascia. This could show up as flashbacks, memories, laughing, or crying, either during your session or shortly after as your body processes the therapy. Emotional trauma can result in physical symptoms, such as muscle tension, headaches, digestive issues, and fatigue. As it releases physical restrictions in your body, myofascial release can be an effective tool in treating chronic pain, depression, and anxiety.

An emotional release reaction is common, and your therapist will be prepared to give you space for it, but many people won’t experience it. Keeping the line of communication open with your therapist is an important part of the process in case these releases happen. 

Who can provide MFR

You can experience the benefits of myofascial release therapy at home by using foam rollers, therapy balls, or targeting trigger points with massage therapy guns. However, the best results will come from a session with a therapist. Look for someone trained and/or certified in Myofascial Release Therapy; you can find this care through sports medicine specialists, massage therapists, physical or occupational therapists, and some osteopathic physicians.

Your first appointment will generally feature diagnostic exercises to determine areas of fascia restrictions and your body’s flexibility or loss of motion. After an initial appointment, you will discuss a therapy plan with your provider, normally a set of regularly-spaced 30-60 minute sessions over a few weeks or months.

While MFR is similar to massage therapy, you’ll experience less kneading and stroking; instead, your therapist will apply deep pressure to spots where the fascia is tight and stiff. You should start to feel less pain and gain more mobility as your sessions progress.

For more information on how myofascial release can help you heal your body, listen to “Free Your Body From Past Trauma with Myofascial Release,” from The Healing Heroes Podcast, featuring special guest and expert MFR instructor Karen Remele. Karen's journey began as a modern jazz dancer and instructor until a horrific motorcycle accident changed the course of her life. She is now dedicated to helping others live pain-free existences and educating on the benefits of myofascial release. Karen is both a licensed physical therapist assistant and a licensed massage therapist. Ultimately, she became a student and expert instructor of the John. F Barnes MFR therapy, which she has now practiced for over 25 years.