What is the point of myofascial release therapy?

Myofascial release therapy is a type of manual therapy that may be used by chiropractors, physiotherapists and massage therapist. It is used to target taut bands of muscle called trigger points to alleviate muscle tension and pain. This technique is also believed to have an effect on the fascia that wraps around muscular tissue. The name myofascial release comes from the words ‘myo’ meaning muscle and ‘fascial’ referring to the fascia that connects tissues together.

Myofascial massage techniques differ from other massage techniques that are used in spa settings in that they are used to alleviate muscle stiffness originating from trigger points. Trigger point pain can be localized to the muscle that its in or it may refer to another area in the body. To learn more about trigger points click here.

During myofascial release, the therapist will locate a taut band of muscle and start to apply pressure to it. This may lead to local tenderness as the massage is being applied. Trigger points are located through diagnostic touching called palpation, it is used to identify parts of the muscle that feel stiff and restricted instead of soft and elastic. The pressure being applied is called an ischemic compression, and this may be combined with stretching to increase range of motion and to reduce pain. The process of compressing a muscle and stretching it may be repeated anywhere between 5 to 8 times, and may be applied to multiple different sites along a muscle belly.

Myofascial release can be used for any muscle that experiences myofascial trigger points. It may also be used for multiple muscles as it works to target the broad network of muscles sheathed by a fascial line.

Is myofascial release safe?

Myofascial release therapy (MRT) is considered to be a safe hands-on technique for people of all ages and athletic backgrounds. Although uncommon, some patients may experience lingering soreness or aches following a treatment, particularly if they are new to this type of treatment. The soreness experienced is similar to the soreness experienced after working out for the first time (this is known as delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS).

Myofascial release is not for everyone as contraindications do exist for this type of therapy. A list of contraindications include (but not limited to):

• Superficial open wounds at the site of injury

• Broken bones (fractures)

• Deep vein thrombosis

Who can benefit the most from myofascial release?

Those suffering from myofascial pain syndromes can benefit from myofascial release. Myofascial pain syndromes are pain originating from trigger points. An example of this is a myofascial headache from an upper trapezius muscle. Patient with this type of headache may find relief with this type of treatment.

This treatment may also benefit those who are experiencing myofascial pain secondary to other conditions. Treatment of secondary complaints can help with managing symptoms as the primary cause of their condition is being addressed. An example of this is using MRT for the treatment of a gluteus medius myofascial trigger point that has occurred secondary to altered gait mechanics following an ankle sprain.

How does myofascial release work?

MRT is used to target myofascial restrictions that have occurred as the result of inflammatory responses, injury / trauma, or surgeries. It is used to re-trigger the first stage of healing response in order to promote blood circulation and tissue remodeling.

Is foam rolling the same as myofascial release?

Depending on the technique used, foam rolling may offer DIY home version of myofascial release. To achieve this you have to think of foam rolling as a misnomer, we won’t be aiming to ‘roll’ over any muscular tissues at all but instead it will pin and stretch a muscle by compressing it under a foam roller.

Remember that foam rolling is not a competition, more pain experienced while foam rolling does not mean more benefit will result from the activity. Overdoing it while foam rolling may instead aggravate your symptoms and leading to exacerbated pain and stiffness. Generally speaking foam rolling should not exceed a 6/10 on your own pain scale and a muscle should not be foam rolled for over 2-3 minutes. It is also important to relax a muscle as much as possible while performing a foam rolling exercise. Focusing on relaxing breaths will help to engage your parasympathetic nervous system to engage to allow for your muscles to relax and to accept the pressure caused by the foam rolling activity.

An example of a pin and stretch technique using the foam roller is the Quadriceps Active Massage:

As you can see in this short clip, I am NOT rolling my quadriceps over top the foam roller. Instead, I first identify a tender spot and hold this position as I bend my knee to stretch the quadriceps muscle. For this type of technique, generally performing 5-6 repetitions of the active stretch is acceptable before finding another tender spot.

For additional foam rolling exercise you can check out our complimentary exercise database by clicking here.

Who can I see for myofascial release in Markham?

A qualified physiotherapist, chiropractor or registered massage therapist can use myofascial release to treat your pain. To book in an appointment with a Rehab Hero therapist click the button below:

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