What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial release is a hands on technique that works on the connective tissue of the body called fascia. Fascia connects all the bones, muscles and organs to each other and helps everything move in relation to each other.
Myofascial tightness or restrictions can develop in any area of the body. Fascia restrictions can cause pain or tightness locally, but it can also affect different parts of your body. For example, a fascia restriction in your hip can affect the flexibility of your shoulder.
Causes of Myofascial Restrictions
1. Poor posture
Slumped shoulders or a forward head and neck position can cause the front muscles to tighten and develop restrictions.
2. Sitting too much
Localized compression on a tissue (like your buttocks) for too long will restrict the blood flow. Fascia and muscle tissue need good blood flow to stay healthy. Lack of blood flow can cause restrictions to develop.
3. Injuries or surgeries
Injuries or surgeries can create changes in the tissue. As your body works to heal the injury or incision, scar tissue develops and cause restrictions in the fascia.
4. Chronic inflammation within an organ
Chronic inflammation can affect the surrounding tissue. Inflammatory conditions such as endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, chronic yeast infections, gastrointestinal issues or colitis can cause changes and restrictions in the fascia.
5. Chronic orthopedic inflammation
Any chronic nerve irritation can potentially change the way the muscle behaves and lead to restrictions. Conditions could include a chronic nerve condition or herniated disc.
Myofascial Release and Treatment
Myofascial release can involve hands-on techniques or tools. The type of technique used varies depending on the symptoms and tolerance to each technique.
If you’re experiencing myofascial restrictions or would like to learn about our myofascial release techniques, click here to schedule a complimentary phone consultation with one of our physical therapists.
