Myofascial release massage is a massage therapy that incorporates light stretching and manipulation of the fascia that surrounds the muscle tissue.

Myofascial release massage is a type of soft tissue massage which comprises a combination of light stretching while using the client’s limbs or sustain pressure applied by therapist. Myofascial release is a gentle technique, the therapy aims at releasing tension from the fibrous bands of the muscles, bones, nerves and joints, by applying a specific pressure and direction into the restricted tissue, which opens or unblocks adhesion as a result of an injury in the muscles and surrounding connective tissues.

Myofascial massage therapy can enhance body posture, relieve areas of muscle tightness improve overall flexibility. Hence, the therapy is used to treat a pain related problems like migraine headaches, menstrual cramps, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, fibromyalgia, whiplash, thoracic outlet syndrome, TMJ dysfunction, trigger points, tender points and muscle spasms.

Massage Techniques

Myofascial massage therapy incorporates hands on, kneading style strokes that applies pressure on the pressure points to stretch, soften, loosen and straighten the muscle tissues. The session usually begins with a gentle massage to loosen the stiff muscles and identify the stressed areas which require more attention. Since the tightened fascia feels different to touch than the normal functioning tissues, the therapist will locate the area of tightness and start stretching the fascia by applying minimal pressure, usually by using only two fingers or palm of the hand, and then wait for the tissues to relax.

As a registered Massage therapist I use myofascial techniques often and usually during the initial phase of treatment, the patient may feel a bit of uneasiness, however, as the session progresses the patient starts feel less muscle tension and pain. Hence, to sum up, we can say that myofascial release massage is an effective technique that can ease adhesion, reduce fascia restriction and increase range of motion to the peripheral joints.