Myofascial Release in East Dulwich

One hour £65

Myofascial release (MFR) is a hands-on, therapeutic technique focused on relieving tension and pain in the body’s myofascial tissues. "Myo" refers to muscle, and "fascia" is the thin, connective tissue surrounding muscles, bones, and organs. Myofascial tissue can become tight, knotted, or restricted due to factors like injury, stress, poor posture, or overuse, leading to chronic pain, restricted movement, and discomfort. Myofascial release aims to gently stretch and release these restrictions, restoring mobility and reducing pain.

Key Goals of Myofascial Release

1. Alleviate Pain: By releasing tight areas, MFR helps reduce pain, especially in cases of chronic pain conditions.
2. Restore Flexibility and Range of Motion: MFR loosens restricted fascia, allowing for better movement.
3. Promote Muscle Relaxation: The technique helps relieve tension in muscles, promoting a deep state of relaxation.
4. Improve Circulation: Releasing tight fascia can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles and tissues.
5. Support Healing from Injury: MFR helps the body recover from injuries by reducing tension around damaged tissue and scar tissue.

How Myofascial Release Works

In myofascial release, a therapist uses gentle, sustained pressure on specific areas of fascia to stretch and release tightness or restrictions. Unlike traditional massage, MFR does not use oils or quick strokes. Instead, it involves holding pressure and moving very slowly, allowing the fascia to release naturally.

The therapist will often target areas where fascia is “stuck” or restricted, which can sometimes be far from where pain is felt. This is because fascia is interconnected throughout the body, and a restriction in one area can cause pain or tightness in another.

Techniques Used in Myofascial Release

1. Direct Release Technique: The therapist applies pressure directly on the restricted area, gently pushing or pulling the fascia until it releases. This technique requires holding the position for a few minutes.
2. Indirect Release Technique: Instead of pushing into the restriction, the therapist gently moves in the opposite direction to "invite" the fascia to release naturally. This technique is often used on areas that are too sensitive for direct pressure. <l/i>
3. Cross-Hand Release: The therapist places hands in a cross position on the area, applying a slow stretch outward in opposite directions to encourage a broader fascia release.
4. Skin Rolling: The therapist gently pinches and rolls the skin to release superficial fascial restrictions, improving elasticity and blood flow.
5. Trigger Point Release: If there are tight, painful points within muscles (often called "knots"), the therapist may apply gentle sustained pressure to release tension and restore normal tissue elasticity.

Conditions Treated with Myofascial Release

Myofascial release can help treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Chronic Pain Syndromes: Conditions like fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and chronic back pain.
• Sports Injuries: Muscle strains, ligament sprains, and repetitive stress injuries.
• Postural Issues: Tight fascia can pull the body into imbalanced postures, contributing to conditions like scoliosis, rounded shoulders, or forward head posture.
• Post-Surgery Recovery: Scar tissue and adhesions from surgeries, such as joint replacements, can benefit from MFR to improve mobility.
• Headaches and Migraines: Especially for tension-related headaches where tight fascia in the neck or scalp may be a contributing factor.

What to Expect During a Myofascial Release Session

In a typical MFR session, the therapist will first assess the areas of tightness or imbalance. They may use their hands, elbows, or knuckles to apply sustained pressure on specific areas, moving slowly and without oils or lotions.

Unlike some massage techniques, MFR is generally not painful, though it may feel intense or uncomfortable as tight areas release. The therapist may work across various areas, as releasing one area of fascia may help alleviate pain or tightness in another interconnected part of the body. The technique may involve moving the skin slightly, applying stretching, or holding positions for several minutes until the fascia "melts" or releases.

Benefits of Myofascial Release

1. Reduces Chronic Pain: MFR helps reduce the pain associated with restricted fascia by releasing tight spots and improving flexibility.
2. Enhances Mobility: By restoring the elasticity of fascia, MFR allows for greater freedom of movement.
3. Promotes Relaxation: The technique helps calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.
4. Improves Circulation and Tissue Health: Releasing restrictions promotes better blood flow, helping tissues receive oxygen and nutrients more effectively.
5. Facilitates Postural Balance: By targeting fascial restrictions that pull the body out of alignment, MFR can help with posture-related issues.

Important Considerations and Precautions

While myofascial release is generally safe, it may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions should avoid MFR or consult a healthcare provider first, including those with:

• Acute infections or skin infections
• Recent fractures or surgeries
• Severe osteoporosis
• Blood clotting disorders or DVT (deep vein thrombosis)
• Malignant tumours

Myofascial release is a therapeutic approach focused on relieving tension, pain, and mobility restrictions in the body’s connective tissues. Through slow, sustained pressure and gentle stretching, MFR can release fascial restrictions, helping improve flexibility, reduce pain, and support overall wellness. It’s widely used for chronic pain, injury recovery, and postural improvement, and can be paired with self-care techniques like foam rolling and stretching to maintain healthy fascia.

Self-Care Techniques for Myofascial Release

In addition to professional sessions, there are self-care techniques people can use to support myofascial health:

• Foam Rolling: Rolling on a foam roller can target larger muscle groups, helping release superficial fascia.
• Tennis Ball or Massage Ball: For smaller, more specific areas, using a tennis or massage ball on sore spots (such as between the shoulder blades) can help release tight areas.
• Stretching: Gentle stretching helps maintain flexibility in fascia and can prevent restrictions from forming.
• Deep Breathing: Practicing diaphragmatic breathing relaxes the body, reducing overall fascial tension.