Myofascial Release
Are you living with stiff or tight muscles? If so, you may be experiencing myofascial pain caused by muscular irritation. Myofascial release treatments at iMotion Physical Therapy may help reduce pain and support improved movement, so you can return to daily life with more comfort.
If stiffness or tightness is limiting your day-to-day activities, myofascial release may be a helpful option.
How can myofascial release help?
Myofascial release is a type of physical therapy treatment in the form of massage that helps alleviate pain by relieving tension within the affected muscles. Our physical therapists are trained in myofascial release and understand what specific pressure points to focus on in order to bring fascia back to a more elastic form.
What conditions can myofascial release treat?
When muscles become constricted or tight, it can significantly impact mobility and lead to pain and limitations with movement. Myofascial release works to reverse this by loosening constricted muscles and allowing for easier movement.
There are several conditions that can be treated with myofascial release. Some of the most common include:
Myofascial pain syndrome
This is the most commonly treated condition through myofascial release, and it can affect many muscles. The trigger points are determined and then massaged out.
Injury
Injuries can also cause muscle stiffness. The affected area is massaged to loosen the muscles and allow for a quicker healing process.
Chronic headaches/migraines
Myofascial release has also been known to relieve the pain of chronic headaches and migraines by massaging tightened muscles around the head and neck.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Patients with carpal tunnel syndrome can benefit from myofascial release by having the muscles in the hands, wrists, and/or arms massaged in order to improve function and mobility.
Fibromyalgia
This condition can also cause stiffness in multiple muscles. The affected areas are determined and then massaged.
Temporomandibular joint disorder
The muscles around the jaw are massaged through myofascial release in many patients with temporomandibular joint disorder. This decreases pain and inflammation, as well as increases mobility of the jaw.
Venous insufficiency
Myofascial release can help reduce the amount of blood pooled in the veins and allow for more efficient blood flow, decreasing the pain felt in the veins.
If you have been diagnosed with one of the conditions listed above, contact iMotion Physical Therapy today.
What can I expect with myofascial release?
Myofascial release is performed through hands-on pressure and massage to areas of tightness. Pressure can be adjusted based on your comfort.
Myofascial release is one part of your plan of care
Myofascial release may be included as part of your treatment plan depending on your needs. It is often paired with other physical therapy treatments such as:
- mobility and strengthening exercises
- movement training
- patient education
- hands-on therapy (when appropriate)
Frequently Asked Questions
Myofascial release is a physical therapy technique in the form of massage that helps alleviate pain by relieving tension within affected muscles and fascia.
If stiff or tight muscles are limiting your daily life, myofascial release may be beneficial. Your physical therapist can help determine whether it fits your treatment plan.
Interested in myofascial release?
If stiffness or tightness is limiting your daily life, request an appointment. We’ll evaluate your symptoms and discuss whether myofascial release may be a helpful part of your plan of care.