Myofascial Release

What is Myofascial Release?

Fascia is a thin, tough, elastic type of connective tissue that wraps most structures within the human body, including muscle. Fascia supports and protects these structures. The Osteopathic theory proposes that this soft tissue can become restricted due to psychogenic disease, overuse, trauma, infectious agents, or inactivity, often resulting in pain, muscle tension, and corresponding diminished blood flow. Although fascia and its corresponding muscle are the main targets of myofascial release, other tissue may be addressed as well, including other connective tissue.

Myofascial release (MFR) is a soft tissue therapy for the treatment of skeletal muscle immobility and pain. The aim is to relax contracted muscles, improve blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulate the stretch reflex in muscles. This involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.