More Complementary & Integrative Healthcare Articles
Myofascial Release and The Athlete
Myofascial release is a term that is just beginning to make its way into the vocabulary of the athletic world. Athletes who've heard of it are already aware of the immense benefits this treatment provides to their active lifestyle. For those who have yet to hear of this treatment, let's explore why myofascial release is a pivotal and important modality for you to be seeking as part of a healthy standard of living.
Myofascial Release is a treatment technique aimed at releasing the fascial tissue in your body. Fascia is a dense connective tissue that surrounds every muscle, bone, joint, nerve, blood vessel and organ in your body. Fascia is a continuous tissue, no beginning, no ending. Hence, if you get a restriction in one region of your body it is likely to impact multiple regions and structures at the same time. Much like a snag in a sweater can deform its shape; restrictions in your fascia can alter the mechanics and alignment of your body by pulling soft tissue, joints and muscles out of their proper position and limiting their function.
So how does this relate to the athlete? If your fascial network is restricted, it compresses and restricts the musculoskeletal system. As the joint becomes compressed, normal mechanics are compromised, increasing the likelihood of wear and tear on the joint. Over time, this will lead to arthritic changes, pain, and an increased chance for injury. In the same way, the tight fascia will restrict the ability of muscle to generate full contractile, force limiting your training potential. Picture someone wrapping their hands around your biceps as tightly as they can while you try to do a biceps curl. It's a lot harder, if not almost impossible, to flex that muscle with it so compressed. Fascia operates the same way.
A tight fascial network will also limit endurance of muscles during prolonged exercise such as running or sporting events. Restricted fascia reduces adequate blood flow to the muscle which limits necessary oxygen for use and makes it harder for the cell toxins to be removed. The lack of proper oxygen and a buildup of toxins results in limited performance, increased fatigue, and increased muscle soreness for the athlete.
The best prevention for all of these conditions is regular myofascial work. Consistent treatment allows your body to maintain a healthy balance between fascia, muscles, and joints, warding off pain and injury.
