What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial release represents a type of care in which the therapist facilitates the patient’s own inherent ability to correct soft tissue dysfunction. Myofascial structural work was introduced in the 1950’s.  Many other treatment approaches such as connective tissue massage, Rolfing, strain and counterstrain, and soft tissue mobilization use the same myofascial models. There is a lack of information on Myofascial release and this lack of information has kept Myofascial Release out of the mainstream. Unlike Cranial Sacral Therapy, which is based on the premise that cranial bones can be moved by the therapist, the effects of Myofascial Release can be explained using known neurophysiologic phenomena.

Myofascial Release involves highly interactive stretching techniques which require feedback from the patient’s body to determine the direction, force and duration of the stretch. Myofascial Release recognizes that a muscle cannot be isolated from the other structures of the body. All stretching is actually stretching of myofascial tissue.

The physical therapist using myofascial release monitors tissue tightness by developing a link with the patient through touch. This link senses the patient’s inherent tissue movement, underlying tissue tone and the more overt muscle tone. As the therapist becomes more adept at sensing the patient’s tone and tightness, the therapist is able to detect subtle restrictions to efficient movement.

The therapist using Myofascial Release works “with” the patient, the patient becomes involved in the process. The therapist is not simply working “on the patient”; the therapist acts as a facilitator.  Myofascial Release helps the patient to achieve the most efficient movement patterns that the patient’s body can maintain with the least amount of effort.

Here at Structura Body Therapies we are concerned with the overall performance of the body and understand the importance of all areas of health and massage therapy. We are trained in Myofascial Release and look forward to introducing this type of treatment to you if it is the best form needed.  We treat patients with all types of needs from automobile accident related injuries to sports performance work.

Please contact us today for any information needed related to massage or structural integration. call us at 801-897-8711