CallThe pain usually originates from specific points within your myofascial tissues called “trigger points". Myofascial release focuses on reducing pain by easing the tension and tightness in the trigger points. It’s not always easy to understand what trigger point is responsible for the pain. Localizing pain to a specific trigger point is very difficult. For that reason, myofascial release is often used over a broad area of muscle and tissue rather than at single points.
These areas where the massage therapist is working may not be near where the pain originates or where you feel the pain most prominently. Myofascial release works the broader network of muscles that might be causing your pain. It tries to reduce tension throughout your body by releasing trigger points across a broad section of your muscular system.
Patients with myofascial pain syndrome frequently benefit from this type of therapy. People who experience chronic headaches may also find relief from myofascial release. Gently massaging tightened muscles in and around the neck and head may reduce headaches. Some people with venous insufficiency, which occurs when blood pools in the deep veins of the leg, may also be candidates for myofascial release. During venous insufficiency, the blood pool stretches and eventually damages the veins in your legs. You may experience an aching and painful sensation in the affected leg. The myofascial release might be used in conjunction with other treatments to reduce the pooling and pain caused by venous insufficiency.
Common Conditions Include:
- Chronic neck pain and back pain (upper and lower)
- Chronic shoulder and hip restrictions
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Migraines and headaches
- Plantar fasciitis (the most common type of heel pain)
- Fibromyalgia
- TMJ dysfunction
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
- Post-polio syndrome
- Whiplash
- A build-up of scar tissue
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Cervical pain
- Menstrual/Urinary incontinence
- Acute sprains and strains
- Poor posture and/or loss of flexibility
- Other complex pain issues that have not responded to treatment
Myofascial release therapy has very few risks but is not recommended for individuals dealing with:
- Burns or open wounds
- Fractures or broken bones
- Fragile or weak bones
- Deep vein thrombosis or deep vein issues
- Blood thinners
Myofascial release by massage therapy has very few risks. Whether you’re trying to relax or aiming to ease back pain, massage therapy may be beneficial for pain reduction. However, massage isn’t ideal for people:
- With burns, injuries, or painful wounds
- With fractures or broken bones
- With fragile or weak bones
- With deep vein thrombosis or deep vein issues
- Taking blood-thinning medications
In very rare cases, massage therapy may cause:
- Internal bleeding
- Temporary paralysis or difficulty moving your muscles
- Allergic reaction to oils, gels, or lotions
- Nerve damage