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 Myofascial
Release is a whole body approach for the evaluation
and treatment of pain and dysfunction. The technique
is gentle and the goal is to restore mobility in fascia
and to soften connective tissue that has become rigid.
It works very well as part of a comprehensive physical
therapy program including therapeutic exercises and
modalities.
Fascia
Fascia is a loose, irregular connective tissue that
spreads three-dimensionally through the body. It covers
the muscles, bones, nerves, organs, and vessels. It
consists of four layers:
- Subcutaneous -
continuous layer over the entire body between the
skin and deep fascia
- Deep - series of
sheets and bands that hold muscles and other structures
in place
- Subserous - lies
between the fascia and serous membranes lining the
body cavities
- Deepest - within
dura mater of the craniosacral system (cranium, spine,
sacrum)
The fascia can not be seen on x-rays, CT scans or EMGs.
Its functions include support, protection, separation,
cellular respiration, elimination, fluid flow, immune
system function, and allowing the body to resist mechanical
stresses. All structures of the body can be affected
when fascial restrictions occur. The restrictions can
be caused by physical trauma or injury, poor posture
or structural imbalance, and inflammation or infection.
Restrictions can cause limited mobility, postural distortion,
poor cellular nutrition, pain, and other dysfunctions.
Because of the interconnectedness of the tissue, restriction
in one part of the body can affect other distant parts
as well. The fascia also stores memory of past traumatic
events. Psychosomatic adaptations may occur which may
cause one to avoid positions which are associated with
pain.
Technique
Your therapist will evaluate your body visually and by
palpating (feeling) tissue texture. Gentle pressure
is applied by slowly pushing, pulling, and stretching
the skin. Fascia has the characteristic of thixotrophy,
which means it can change from a more solid to a more
gel-like state with movement and increase in temperature.
Some techniques are:
- Sustained Stretch
- gentle pressure into the direction of restriction
usually with a sliding motion that stretches the tissue.
- Skin Rolling -
gently picking up and pulling skin away from underlying
structures. This stretches subcutaneous fascia, breaks
cross-links, and makes tissues more pliable.
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