Myofascial release is a specialized hands-on type of massage therapy designed to target fascia, a crucial layer of connective tissue in the body. Fascia wraps around and supports muscles, organs, and other structures, and it’s essential for how our bodies move and function.
When this tissue becomes tight or restricted, it can lead to pain and limited mobility. Myofascial release helps alleviate these issues by releasing the tension, promoting better movement and reducing discomfort.
Understanding Fascia
If you think of Twizzlers, the popular licorice-type candy, nine of the pull-and-peel little strands are in one piece of licorice.
If you were to take that licorice apart, put plastic cling wrap around each of those nine little strands, and then put them all back together—the cling wrap between each of the tiny pieces of licorice is fascia.
Erica Simpson, a massage therapist at inBalance Chiropractic and Wellness
You can also imagine the fascia as layers within an orange—the white, stringy bits that hold the juicy segments together. When healthy, fascia allows everything to move easily. But when it becomes tight, it restricts movement and causes discomfort.
How Does Myofascial Release Work?
Myofascial release is different from traditional massage. It’s done without oil so that the therapist can “grip” the skin and fascia. This allows for deeper work into the tissue to help release adhesions or areas where the fascia has become sticky.
Because fascia doesn’t respond like muscles (which contract and relax), myofascial release focuses on applying sustained pressure to stretch and soften the fascia, helping it return to its natural, healthy state.
Who Can Benefit?
People with chronic pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility are ideal candidates for myofascial release. Whether it’s due to repetitive movements, an injury, or simply life’s wear and tear, myofascial release can help:
- Athletes with repetitive strain injuries
- Office workers suffering from poor posture
- Anyone recovering from surgery or injury
What to Expect During a Session
Myofascial release sessions are always highly individualized. Your therapist will work with you to identify areas of tightness and pain, adjusting the pressure as needed. As Erica emphasizes, it’s also important to remember that you are in charge of the session.
If you need to stop, if you need a breather, if you need to continue the session differently, that is completely within your power and the good and valid choice to make if you feel called to make that
Erica
.
Ready to Experience the Benefits?
You don’t have to put up with pain or be sidelined by restricted movement. If you’d like to reduce discomfort, improve your range of motion, and give your body the freedom it deserves, myofascial release may be a great option.
Contact inBalance Chiropractic and Wellness today to schedule your session with Erica!
CONTACT US »