With the use of gentle, sustained pressure, a myofascial release massage can help eliminate pain and restore motion in soft tissue by focusing on the tough membranes that wrap, connect, and support your muscles. These tough membranes are also known as myofascial tissues. Inflammatory response, trauma, and/or surgical procedures can create restrictions in the soft tissues that can cause pain, muscle tension, and diminished blood flow. These results will rarely show up in traditional, standard tests like x-rays, electromyography, or CAT scans.
Pain causes a protection response from the body. The muscles around that pain point will contract to provide support and protect the surrounding tissues. Over time, this can lead to more restrictions, especially when you talk about something like chronic pain. If these pain points aren’t managed, more pain can result as blood flow becomes restricted to the contracted area. Imagine that myofascial release is a way to smooth out these hard knots of stiffness and pain.
During a myofascial release massage, the massage therapist locates areas that feel stiff and fixed instead of movable and elastic. They do this through light, manual pressure. These areas may not be close to the pain. Think about the chronic pain cycle mentioned above. The knots and restrictions can create compounded pain that travels elsewhere. Your body is one system that works together to protect itself.
With focused manual pressure and tissue stretching, the muscles loosen up. This can move indirectly to reducing overall muscle pain. The therapist moves from trigger point to trigger point until the tension is fully released.
Myofascial release isn’t for everyone. If you take blood-thinning medications, have deep vein thrombosis or other deep vein issues, or have weak, fragile or broken bones, myofascial release shouldn’t be attempted without consulting your doctor.
A massage therapist should listen as you explain your areas of concern, pay attention to your needs, and work with you to unravel the knots of pain in your body. Whether it’s neck, back, knee, or elbow pain, myofascial release may be just what you need.
If you’re looking for that extra mile in fine massage, we offer some incredible options. Our myofascial release therapy may be just what you need to fight back against pain. Our Summer 6 Pack is still going on! Buy six massages at a great discount and enjoy your amazing summer.