Definition - What does myofascial release mean?
Myofascial release is a technique used to treat muscle tightness and pain. Specifically, myofascial release focuses on loosening locked or tightened areas of the thin connective tissue called fascia. Fascia is a strong flexible tissue that encloses and stabilizes the body's muscles, organs and other parts of the musculoskeletal system.
Myofascial release is said to relieve muscular tension and knots, reducing pressure and restoring movement.
Myofascial release may also be referred to as muscle fascia release.
SureHire explains myofascial release
Myofascial release is categorized as a form of physical or massage therapy. During myofascial release therapy, the person performing the technique uses their hands and elbows or specialized tools to loosen the fascia in a targeted area by applying pressure.
The areas to which myofascial release methods are applied are sometimes called trigger points. These trigger points are not usually located at the point of the pain but are the source of the fascia tightness or restrictions that cause the pain. There is no one accepted method for performing myofascial release and the technique may be performed by a massage therapist, chiropractor or other health care professional. Additionally, the treatment may be used to address a variety of types of muscle pain and discomfort. For these reasons, clinical evidence regarding the effectiveness of myofascial release remains limited.
