Do you often feel chronic pain or constantly strained muscles, even after workouts? Myofascial release could be the solution you need. It’s a method for easing the pressure in trigger points, helping to release underlying tension. You’ve probably seen people doing this at the gym, rolling on foam rollers. But can it help you?
Myofascial release therapy might sound complicated, but don’t let the technical name scare you. It’s actually a very effective treatment that can address various types of physical tension, immobility, and pain.
Fascia is a type of connective tissue that supports your body’s structure. While tendons and ligaments are well-known types of connective tissue, fascia might be less familiar but is just as important. It’s a thin tissue wrapping around your muscles and other body parts.
Fascia layers exist just beneath the skin and deep inside your body. Though tough, it needs to stay flexible and elastic to function correctly. Sometimes, however, it becomes too tight.
This problematic tension might occur due to injury or the cumulative effects of long-term strain. When fascia gets too tight, trigger points can form. These are very sensitive, tight areas that significantly restrict muscle movement beneath them.
Myofascial release therapy treats overly tight fascia and trigger points. By releasing tension in the fascia, therapists can alleviate pain and improve mobility in the affected areas. They use their hands or other tools to apply pressure and stretch tight fascia areas.
People often perform this therapy on themselves using tools like foam rollers, bars, and balls to release trigger points. Areas of muscle that constantly feel tight or strained are good candidates for myofascial release therapy. When fascia tightens, the muscle tissue below is immobilized, restricting blood flow and worsening the issue.
Long-term strain, like lower back pain, can cause myofascial pain. Acute injuries, such as sprained joints, can also lead to tight fascia areas. Neck, shoulder, and back pain are common areas treated with this therapy but not the only possible targets.
If you struggle with chronic tightness or strain anywhere in your body, consider seeking a consultation for myofascial release therapy.
Though similar in some ways to massage therapy, myofascial release therapy has notable differences. Both therapies relieve pain and tension through physical pressure, but they focus on different tissues. While massage therapy primarily aims to relax muscles, myofascial release targets both connective tissue and muscle. This focus requires a different approach, with myofascial release using more sustained pressure to stretch tension areas, as opposed to the kneading movements typical in massages.