Myofascial Release Therapy

Increase flexibility in soft tissue areas

There are several conditions and symptoms that Myofascial Release Therapy addresses. Many patients seek treatment after losing flexibility or function following an injury or while experiencing ongoing pain in soft tissue areas (ie: the back, shoulder, or hip). Other conditions that may benefit from MFR therapy include Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, or migraine headaches. Myofascial Release Therapy focuses on releasing muscular shortness and tightness in these trouble spots. The goal is to stretch and loosen the fascia so that it and other contiguous structures can move more freely. Patients that benefit from MRF therapy present symptoms which may include:

• Tightness of the tissues that restricts motion or pulls the body out of alignment, causing individuals to favor and overuse one side over the other.
• Excessive pressure on muscles or joint, resulting in pain.

Sources of myofascial pain

Myofascial pain has two main sources. Pain can be generated by skeletal muscles or connective tissues restricted by tension in the fascia. Pain can also originate from damaged myofascial tissue itself, sometimes at a ‘trigger point’ where a contraction of muscle fibers has occurred. In either case, the restriction or contraction inhibits blood flow to the affected structures, thus accentuating the issue further unless the area is treated.

So, what is fascia? Think of fascia as three-dimensional web that permeates the whole body. The best way to envision the expanse of fascia is as a layer of connective tissue (similar to a tendon or ligament) that starts with the top layer directly below the skin and extends to two deeper levels. The fascia is a continuous system, running from the bottom of the feet through the top of the head and consists of three layers:

• Superficial fascia: This lies directly below the skin. It stores fat and water, allows nerves to run through it, and allows muscle to move the skin.
• Deep fascia: This surrounds and infuses with muscle, bone, nerves, and blood vessels to the cellular level.
• Deepest fascia: This sits within the dura of cranial sacral system.

Myofascial Release Therapy can provide relief

Fascia restrictions can occur within any or all of these layers. When fascia is in a normal, healthy state it is a relaxed and supple web, like the weave in a loose-knit sweater. When restricted, it is less pliable and creates pulls, tensions, and pressure as great as 2,000 pounds per square inch. Ask your therapist at Family First Chiropractic how Myofascial Release Therapy can provide relief for your symptoms today! We have offices in Dripping Springs.