Myofascial Release
When clients visit the clinic for a Myofascial Release treatment they will often explain how they have heard of Myofascial Release but don't actually know what is involvedd as part of a treatment! Others will have seen examples of Myofascial Release online where the participant will use a tennis or 'spikey' ball to press into tender spots in the tissues. Although these techniques can be useful - this is not Myofascial Release. Myofascial Release works on a much deeper level, helping to ease chronic pain and restore alignment and mobility to the tissues and joints. Although myofascial release can seem very gentle in its application, it a powerful therapy which works deeply into the tissues.
The therapist applies a light, sustained stretch on any areas of the body where tension is felt. The intention is to release any "stuck" areas of fascia which may be responsible for causing pain and restriction throughout the body.
There are no sudden manipulations, no stripping out of the muscles, and the effects are deep and long lasting. It is also very safe.
Myofascial Release benefits both sensitive clients with chronic pain conditions and those with deep tissue restrictions from injury and overuse. It can often be the 'missing link' in treatments for those who have tried everything else without any improvement.
What happens During Treatment?
Firstly, we will assess your posture and movement patterns to try and identify restrictions and holding patterns within the body which may be causing your pain. You may also be asked to perform simple movements to try and identify these restrictions further. These movements may include you gently raising your arms or rotating and sidebending your torso and hips. These movements are gentle and you wont be asked to perform any movements which are beyond your current ability.
You will not be asked to undress or remove any clothing during assessment, comfortable clothing, which you can move freely in, is normally sufficient. Although myofasical release is a hands on therapy normally performed on the skin, your dignity and comfort is paramount at all times and you will not be expected to undress or receive treatment you do not feel comfortable with. Treatment can be performed over clothing if this feels more comfortable for you. This will be discussed with you fully during your initial assessment.
During the hands on part of the Myofacsial Release session my role is to feel and stretch slowly into the fascial network. My intention is to feel where the fascial restrictions are and slowly and patiently move through them. Patience and working at a slow pace is needed as fascia cannot be forced and will only respond with resistance if too much pressure is applied. This means that a gentle, sustained pressure may take more than 90-120 seconds to begin to have an effect and often takes 5 minutes before the tissues begin to release and unwind.
If you have any questions, then please contact us, tell us about your condition, and we will advise you on whether Myofascial Release will be able to help you.