What To Know About Myofascial Release Massage

By Marissa Velazquez


Myofascial release massage is classified as a soft-tissue therapy. The procedure is often carried out as treatment for immobility and pain associated with the skeletal muscle. This is meant to relax all of the contracted muscles, improve blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulate stretch reflex of various muscles. Andrew Taylor Still, known as the father of osteopathic medicine, along with his earliest students, are credited with initially identifying this method.

Fascia is the name given to the soft tissue component that is within the connective tissue and serves the purpose of providing protection and support for many structures of the body, such as muscle. Osteopathic theory suggests that fascia may become restricted because of a number of factors, for example: overuse, infectious agents, psychogenic disease, inactivity or trauma. This restriction often manifests as pain, diminished blood flow and muscle tension.

This soft tissue and its muscle are the primary targets of the myofascial release therapy, although other tissues might be addressed in the process. The techniques involved with this therapy are known to fall under two key categories: passive or active. Passive involves the patient staying completely relaxed and active requires the patient to provide as much resistance as necessary.

This release may also be indirect or direct. Deep tissue manipulation is involved with the direct technique. The tissue is constantly engaged by force until the release has been started. People who give this treatment will use various tools, as well as their knuckles or elbows, as a way to slowly stretch the restricted fascia. This is designed to bring about changes in the structure through stretching or elongating certain tissues or the fascia. Practitioners are trained to make movements slowly through the layers of tissue until they have reached the deepest tissue.

When it comes to indirect technique, there is more subtly. Specifically, there are gentle stretches used and only a few grams of pressure, which allows the fascia to unwind by itself. Tissue that is dysfunctional is then moved with little resistance until free movement is permitted. The indirect method started in osteopathy school and is common in the field of physiotherapy.

Keep in mind that practitioners are expected to vary in any ways. They might have their own experience, knowledge, style and overall technique. Likewise, the results of this type of therapy may differ, depending on a host of factors. With that said, it is still highly recommended that individuals take the time to do thorough research on the therapy, as well as the practitioner who will be performing it.

The cost of this massage will vary. There are some insurance companies that will cover a portion of the bill, but not all will do this. Covering the bill out of pocket can be very expensive but to some this is a worthy investment. The practice has become more popular in recent years, especially amongst massage and medical groups. Benefits that are frequently touted by supporters include loosening of tight muscles and tissues, improvement of mood and overall pain management.

Myofascial release massage is a type of soft-tissue therapy with numerous perceived benefits. This procedure is becoming popular in many parts of the world. The effectiveness and cost of this therapy will range considerably. Those interested are urged to do adequate research in advance.




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