Myofascial Release

What Is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial release (MFR) is a hands-on therapy that focuses on releasing restrictions in the fascia—the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and organs throughout the body. Therapists apply gentle, sustained pressure to areas of restriction to help restore movement and reduce pain.¹

Understanding Fascia²

Continuous web of connective tissue
Surrounds every structure in body
Can become tight or restricted
Restrictions can cause pain
May affect areas distant from restriction

What Causes Fascial Restrictions?

Trauma and injury
Surgery and scarring
Inflammation
Poor posture
Repetitive movements
Prolonged immobility
Stress and tension

Techniques³

Direct MFR

Pressure applied to restriction
Working with tissue resistance
Sustained holds

Indirect MFR

Following tissue ease
Very gentle pressure
Waiting for release

What to Expect

Hands-on treatment
Sustained pressure (not massage)
Holds last 90-120+ seconds
May feel stretching or warmth
Should not be extremely painful
Treatment may be slow and gentle

Conditions That May Benefit

Myofascial pain syndrome
Chronic neck and back pain
Headaches
Fibromyalgia
Post-surgical adhesions
Scar tissue restrictions
TMJ dysfunction

Research Status

Growing body of research
Some positive findings for pain
Evidence quality varies
Mechanisms still being studied
Part of many treatment plans

Self-Myofascial Release

Foam rolling
Massage balls
Can be helpful adjunct
Different from hands-on treatment
Learn proper technique

Finding Treatment

Physical therapists
Massage therapists (trained in MFR)
Occupational therapists
Ask about specific MFR training

After Treatment

May feel sore next day
Drink water
Effects may be gradual
Multiple sessions often needed

References

Ajimsha MS, Al-Mudahka NR, Al-Madzhar JA. Effectiveness of myofascial release: systematic review of randomized controlled trials. J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2015;19(1):102-112.
Schleip R, Findley TW, Chaitow L, Huijing PA. Fascia: The Tensional Network of the Human Body. Churchill Livingstone; 2012.
McKenney K, Elder AS, Elder C, Hutchins A. Myofascial release as a treatment for orthopaedic conditions: a systematic review. J Athl Train. 2013;48(4):522-527.