myofascial release

what is MFR

involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the myofascial CT restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion

a low load (gentle pressure) applied slowly will allow a viscoelastic medium (fascia) to elongate

what is fascia

a specialized system of the body that has an appearance similar to a spiders web or sweater

very densely woven, covering and interpenetrating every muscle, bone, nerve, artery, and vein, as well as, all of our internal organs including the heart, lungs, brain, and spinal cord

one continuous structure that exists from head to toe without interruption

trauma, inflam responses, and/or surgical procedures create MF restrictions that can produce tensile pressures

structure and function of fascia

relaxed and wavy in configuration. it has the ability to stretch and move without restriction

with physical, emotional trauma, or inflam, the fascia loses its pliability. it becomes tight, restricted, and a source of tension to the rest of the body

fascia comprises 3 layers in the human body

superficial - secures dermis of the skin to underlying structures

deep - surrounds indiv organs and muscles

subserous - situated between the internal layer of the deep fascia and the serous membranes, lines the cavities of the body

the changes trauma causes in the fascial system influences

comfort and function of our body

fascial restrictions can exert excessive pressure causing all kinds of sx producing pain, headaches, or restriction of motion

fascial restrictions affect our flexibility and stability and are a determining factor in our ability to withstand stress and perform daily activities

conditions that can be helped with MFR

back pain

headaches

whiplash

pelvic pain

neck pain

sports injuries

chronic pain

disc problems

migraines

neurologic dysfunction

fibromyalgia *******

chronic fatigue syndrome

adhesions

carpal tunnel

TMJ

painful scars

scoliosis

treating using MFR

performed directly on skin without oils, creams or any equipment

the therapist accurately detects fascial restrictions and apply the approp amount of sustained pressure to facilitate release of the fascia