Myofascial release therapy or myofascial massage focuses on manipulating the connective tissues that sheath the muscles and organs of the body. Painful trigger points can originate in the fascia, affecting the surrounding muscles and skeletal system. By paying particular attention to the fascia and regularly receiving myofascial massage, you can ensure your body structures are well maintained and fully functional.
What To Expect
The intake process for myofascial massage is in-depth and thorough. Your practitioner will want to know about all injuries and accidents, as well as how long you’ve experienced pain. You will want to share relevant medical history, as well as a history of other interventions such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage, etc. Like other forms of traditional massage, you will disrobe and lay on a massage table, draped by a sheet. Your massage therapist will use several massage techniques to manipulate the fascia. This process can be pretty intense, mainly when the practitioner works on knots that have been long established. You should feel significant relief quickly after the knot has been released and worked out.
Benefits
Myofascial release can offer pain relief, improve muscle function, correct muscle imbalance, and release deep knots held in these tissues. This therapy can also improve movement, flexibility, and circulation. This form of massage can also reduce adhesions from scar tissue and support the body’s ability to properly heal injuries.
Contraindications
People undergoing cancer treatment, have open wounds, have osteoporosis or osteoarthritis, have blood clotting disorders, advanced diabetes, or recent bone fractures should not receive myofascial massage. Let your massage therapist know about any chronic or acute conditions you may be experiencing so that they can create the most suitable treatment plan for you.
Frequency
Treatment plans generally aim to resolve issues between four and twelve weeks, depending on severity. Chronic or severe conditions will require more extended treatment plans with greater frequency. As this form of massage is meant to be short-term and medically therapeutic in nature, you may not experience the same deeply relaxing massage you are used to.
Aftercare
Following the myofascial release, you may experience soreness and radiating pain. This is normal and should resolve within a few days. Focus on hydration and relaxation following your session. Epsom baths can be soothing to the body following an intense session. You may use alternating heat and cryotherapy to reduce symptoms, swelling, and pain. Alternate ice and heat packs every twenty minutes, starting with ice to reduce swelling. Do not keep ice packs on bare skin for longer than twenty minutes, as you may damage your skin and muscle tissues. If you experience deep tissue bruising, speak with your massage therapist or consult your primary care physician, as this could signify an underlying medical concern.