In this post, we go over (1) what is myofascial release, (2) why it's important, and (3) what is myofascial release therapy.

What Is Myofascial Release & Why It’s Important

Myofascial release is a practical therapy used to treat muscle and joint dysfunction, associated chronic pain, and range of motion. This so-called "prevention" is achieved by relaxing tense muscles - and, more importantly, restoring mobility and elasticity to connective tissue, increasing circulation, and increasing blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

It is often a very relaxing and pleasant treatment, non-invasive, with minimal pain or discomfort. It would be incorrect to say that there is no pain or discomfort, as there sometimes is.

However, we don't force anything and we don't harm ourselves. If the body starts to move a little, it can hurt. The difference you feel afterward is often incredible. And unlike powerful approaches like drugs, invasive manipulation, etc., there are no side effects.

Myofascial Release Therapy

This is a treatment performed by specially trained therapists. They focus on using a soft tissue technique that stretches, hydrates, and relaxes the muscles and joints, as well as the surrounding myofascial tissue. Fascia is the connective tissue that wraps your body like a fine mesh, from the top of your skull to the tip of your big toe. It's like a full-body suit made of flexible, protective fabric.

This connective tissue covers and permeates everything in our bodies – from muscles, bones, and organs to veins, arteries, and eyeballs. With gentle pressure and warmth from the hands, we encourage the myofascial tissue to loosen and stretch. This hands-on technique causes muscles and other tissues to soften and return to a functional position.

This treatment is beneficial for many different conditions in the body and mind. But it is often regarded as the most effective way to improve the mobility and flexibility of joints and muscles. This improvement in range of motion improves recovery and reduces joint and muscle pain.

If you have chronic pain, old injuries, or postural problems, you may benefit from the myofascial release:

• Fibromyalgia
• Spinal disc issues
• Arthritis
• Backache
• Sciatica
• Frozen shoulder
• Buzz
• Hip pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Chronic fatigue syndrome

Body Parts That May Benefit From Myofascial Release

This pain relief technique is great for body parts that are used frequently or in fixed positions for long periods. These areas are:

• Neck
• Shoulders 
• Weapon
• Head
• Jaw
• Lower back
• Hip
• Quadruple
• Calves
• Leg