What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial release is a massage technique that focuses on the stretching or elongation of fascia, or mobilizing adhesive tissues. Fascia is the continuous band of connective tissue that surrounds and envelops muscles. Often when muscles become tight and restricted it is not because of a problem with the muscle itself but a hardening of this fascial container that surrounds it. Fascia can become stiff or even scared over by overuse, trauma, stress, or inactivity, often resulting in pain, muscle tension, and reduced blood flow. Direct myofascial release is an attempt to bring about changes in the myofascial structures by stretching or elongation of fascia, or mobilizing adhesive tissues. The practitioner utilizes a variety of depths and oblique strokes to achieve length, mobility and increased circulation.

Benefits of Myofascial release include:

• Relief from pain
• Increased range of motion
• Improved posture
• Improved athletic performance