What is myofascial release therapy?
Myofascial release is hands-on treatment of the fascia, the connective tissue wrapping every muscle in the body. Sustained pressure is applied to bands of tissue that have tightened or bound to the layers around them, restoring the ability of muscles to glide independently and releasing trigger points that refer pain elsewhere.
Myofascial release treats the fascia, the sheet of connective tissue that wraps around and between every muscle in the body. When fascia tightens or binds to the layers around it, muscles lose the ability to glide independently, movement becomes restricted, and pain often appears some distance from the actual restriction.
Myofascial release pairs closely with chiropractic adjustment for this reason. An adjustment restores movement to a joint, but if the fascia and muscle around that joint stay tight, they tend to pull it straight back out of position. Treating both is what makes the results hold between visits.
At our Dearborn practice, myofascial release is delivered by hand using sustained pressure held until the tissue releases, stripping techniques along the length of a muscle, and movement of the joint while tension is maintained. Our chiropractors work to locate the specific bands of restricted tissue rather than working broadly over an area, which is what separates therapeutic myofascial work from general massage.
The technique is particularly effective on trigger points, those tight and tender knots that refer pain elsewhere in the body, and on the adhesions that form after an injury. Releasing an adhesion restores how tissue slides against neighboring structures, and frequently returns range of motion that had seemed permanently lost.
Improved circulation is a significant part of the benefit. Chronically tight tissue carries reduced blood flow, which slows the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and the clearance of metabolic waste. Restoring normal tone and length improves that exchange and helps the area recover more readily between sessions.
Some tenderness in the treated area for a day afterwards is common and settles quickly. If you carry persistent muscle tension, or you find that adjustments help but the relief does not last, contact our office to schedule an appointment.
Conditions we treat with myofascial release therapy
- Muscle tension
- Trigger points
- Scar tissue
- Restricted movement
- Muscle strains
Not sure whether this is right for what you’re feeling? Call313-908-9743 and we’ll talk it through.
Common questions
How is myofascial release different from a massage?
A massage works broadly across an area for general relaxation. Myofascial release targets specific bands of restricted tissue identified during examination and holds pressure on them until they release. The aim is to change how the tissue behaves, not to ease tension for an hour.
Does myofascial release hurt?
Working directly on a trigger point is often tender, and patients frequently describe it as a good kind of discomfort. Pressure is kept to what you can tolerate while still breathing normally. Mild soreness the next day is common and settles quickly.
Why combine myofascial release with adjustments?
An adjustment restores movement to a joint, but tight fascia and muscle around that joint tend to pull it straight back out of position. Treating both is what makes the result hold between visits.
Think this could help?
Call the office and we’ll talk through whether it’s the right fit for what you’re feeling.