Myofascial Release

By Heather Allen, MS, PT

Journeying into Healing, LLC

. http://www.journeyingintohealing.com/

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Myofascial Release

Like most people you immediately wonder, what is myofascial release? Myofascial release (or MFR) is a technique used by physical therapists, and others, to relieve pain and improve physical functioning through the manipulation of the fascial network. To understand how this therapeutic intervention can work for you, you need to know more about fascia.

Fascia is a connective tissue system found throughout the body. It is unique in that it is not just a system of separate coverings, but rather one singular structure that extends from head to toe without interruption. Fascia is very densely woven, with an appearance similar to that of a spider's web. It lines and covers every muscle, bone, nerve, andbloodvessel in our body as well as surrounding all of our internal organs including the heart, brain, spinal cord, and lungs. Without the constant balanced pull of the fascial network there is a loss of equilibrium in the body resulting in the dysfunction of one or more of our body systems. Why is it important to treat our fascia? Read on to find out.

In the normal healthy state, fascia is relaxed and wavy in configuration with the ability to stretch and move allowing our body to absorb and adapt to stress. With any injury or trauma the fascia loses some of its pliability, becoming tight and limiting normal movement. The restrictions that develop can result in inflammation of joints and soft tissue, compression of bones and nerves, poor posture and pain. Science has proven that adhesions in the fascial network can create pressure on structures equal to 2,000 pounds per square inch. That is like parking a car on your muscles, bones and nerves! This alone makes it obvious why treating our fascia is so important!

MFR allows therapists to engage this three dimensional system and manipulate it to release adhesions and restore the body's normal healthy balance. By addressing fascial restrictions found in the body, we take pressure off of joints and nerves, improve flexibility in muscles and in the spine, and thereby improve posture, reduce pain and improve the patient's overall quality of life. Seeking physical therapy care that incorporates myofascial release along with traditional modalities such as stretching and exercise is central to the most positive outcome for a patient's rehab.