What is myofascial release?

Fascia is tough connective tissue which spreads throughout the body in a three-dimensional web from head to toe.  The fascia is ubiquitous, surrounding every muscle, bone, nerve, blood vessel and organ all the way down to the cellular level.  Generally, the fascial system provides support, stability and cushioning.  It is also a system of locomotion and dynamic flexibility forming muscle. Tightening of the fascial system is a histologic, physiologic and biomechanic protective mechanism that is a response to trauma.  The fascia loses its pliability, becomes restricted, and is a source of tension to the rest of the body.  The ground substance solidifies, the collagen becomes dense and fibrous, and the elastin loses its resiliency.  Over time this can lead to poor muscular biomechanics, altered structural alignment, and decreased strength, endurance and motor coordination.  Subsequently, the patient is in pain and functional capacity is lost.

Myofascial release is a hands-on soft tissue technique that facilitates a stretch into the restricted fascia.  A sustained pressure is applied into the restricted tissue barrier: after 90-120 seconds the tissue will undergo histological length changes allowing the first release to be felt.  The therapist follows the release into a new tissue barrier and holds.  After a few releases the tissue will become softer and more pliable.  The restoration of length and health to the myofascial tissue will take the pressure off the pain sensitive structures such as nerves and blood vessels, as well restoring alignment and mobility to the joints.