Myofascial Release Techniques
Myofascial release techniques are basically of two types - direct and indirect. In direct myofascial release therapy, direct pressure is applied to the restricted fascia, whereas in case of indirect approach, a very low force is applied to the fascia and allows it to unwind on its own. Myofascial release is basically a type of massage therapy techniques, which involves stretching and releasing of the soft tissues in order to balance the body muscles. The term myofascia is derived from the Latin words for muscle (myo) and band (fascia). Fascia is the soft tissue portion that surrounds every part of the body. It plays a major role in maintaining normal metabolic process and providing the structural integrity of the body. It also protects the body cells from the invading pathogens.
The main objective of myofascial release therapy is to manipulate the fascia for combating muscle pain, healing injury, managing stress, increasing flexibility and improving body posture. It mainly focuses on treating the trigger points that are located in the muscles. Hence, myofascial therapy is also known as myofascial trigger point therapy. There are various myofascial release techniques, each of which is intended for restoring the health of fascia.
Techniques for Myofascial Release Therapy
The main approach of every myofascial release technique is more or less similar. A physical therapist locates the restricted fascia portion and applies light stretch to the area. Pressure application is repeated for several times, until the restricted fascia can be stretched properly. The same procedure is followed for the treatment of other sore and restricted spots. Based on the therapy approach, there are two myofascial release techniques, namely direct and indirect therapy.
Direct Myofascial Release: According to the direct myofascial release technique, the functionality of the restricted fascia is improved by using low force directly on the affected spots. For stretching the trigger points, the physical therapist may apply pressure of a few kilogram by using elbows, forearm, knuckles or other therapy tools. This direct technique involves the manipulation of deep tissues by pressure application. Under this method, the physician first locates the barrier within the soft tissue, holds it with pressure for 50-60 seconds and release it gently. As per the patient's medical problem, direct myofascial release may be conducted on the face, head, neck, trunk, cervical portion, pelvis, thigh and feet.
Indirect Myofascial Release: In indirect myofascial release technique, a very low pressure of about a few grams is applied to the fascia. The objective of this method is to increase the heat and blood circulation in the restricted fascia. Following this, the body's natural ability allows the fascia to relax and stretch on its own. For performing the indirect myofascial release technique, the therapist uses fingers to lightly press on the restricted fascia for about 4 minutes, after which the pressure is released slowly. This way, the built up of muscle tension is balanced. Very often, therapeutic pulse is observed during the procedure of indirect therapy.
In recent times, myofascial release techniques by using fitness accessories like foam rollers, flexible bags and therapy balls. Overall, myofascial release therapy is a gentle and safe procedure for body relaxation. As more people are engaged into this therapy, certain self performing myofascial release techniques are suggested to carry out at home. However, prior to doing any self myofascial release techniques, one should always consult a therapist regarding the positions, activities and their effects.
The main objective of myofascial release therapy is to manipulate the fascia for combating muscle pain, healing injury, managing stress, increasing flexibility and improving body posture. It mainly focuses on treating the trigger points that are located in the muscles. Hence, myofascial therapy is also known as myofascial trigger point therapy. There are various myofascial release techniques, each of which is intended for restoring the health of fascia.
Techniques for Myofascial Release Therapy
The main approach of every myofascial release technique is more or less similar. A physical therapist locates the restricted fascia portion and applies light stretch to the area. Pressure application is repeated for several times, until the restricted fascia can be stretched properly. The same procedure is followed for the treatment of other sore and restricted spots. Based on the therapy approach, there are two myofascial release techniques, namely direct and indirect therapy.
Direct Myofascial Release: According to the direct myofascial release technique, the functionality of the restricted fascia is improved by using low force directly on the affected spots. For stretching the trigger points, the physical therapist may apply pressure of a few kilogram by using elbows, forearm, knuckles or other therapy tools. This direct technique involves the manipulation of deep tissues by pressure application. Under this method, the physician first locates the barrier within the soft tissue, holds it with pressure for 50-60 seconds and release it gently. As per the patient's medical problem, direct myofascial release may be conducted on the face, head, neck, trunk, cervical portion, pelvis, thigh and feet.
Indirect Myofascial Release: In indirect myofascial release technique, a very low pressure of about a few grams is applied to the fascia. The objective of this method is to increase the heat and blood circulation in the restricted fascia. Following this, the body's natural ability allows the fascia to relax and stretch on its own. For performing the indirect myofascial release technique, the therapist uses fingers to lightly press on the restricted fascia for about 4 minutes, after which the pressure is released slowly. This way, the built up of muscle tension is balanced. Very often, therapeutic pulse is observed during the procedure of indirect therapy.
In recent times, myofascial release techniques by using fitness accessories like foam rollers, flexible bags and therapy balls. Overall, myofascial release therapy is a gentle and safe procedure for body relaxation. As more people are engaged into this therapy, certain self performing myofascial release techniques are suggested to carry out at home. However, prior to doing any self myofascial release techniques, one should always consult a therapist regarding the positions, activities and their effects.
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