Myofascial Release

Myofascial Release

A technique that combines non-gliding fascial traction with orthopedic stretch to produce moderate tension on muscle and fascia, resulting in lengthening or 'creep'.

Direct Fascial Techniques

Slow, gliding techniques applying moderate, sustained tension to fascia and muscle, resulting in palpable viscoelastic lengthening.

Indirect MFR

Therapist applies force away from the fascial barrier or restriction of motion.

Creep

Gradual lengthening of connective tissue that occurs with sustained tensile force, reflecting the viscous behavior of dense connective tissue.

Skin Rolling

A gliding stroke where the therapist lifts and rolls the tissues superficial to deep fascia in a wavelike motion.

Elastic Stretch

A type of stretch that disappears once tensile force is released, behaving like a spring.

Viscoelastic Tissue

Tissue that shows both viscous/plastic and elastic behavior under force, allowing some length gained during a stretch to remain post-release.

Fascial Torquing

A technique involving raising tissue between fingers, taking up slack, and twisting to engage tissue further.

Muscle Stripping

A slow, specific gliding technique applied along the attachment of a muscle to affect its fibers and associated fascia.

Shearing

Parallel forces applied to tissue causing restriction, resulting in tissue separation and neurologic stimulation.

Therapeutic Fascial Traction

Stretch applied to muscle groups to produce moderate tension causing viscoelastic lengthening.

Cautions and Contraindications for MFR

Conditions under which myofascial release should not be applied, such as malignancy, infections, and acute inflammatory states.

Pain Quality in Direct Fascial Work

Typically described as a burning or pinching sensation during the application of direct fascial techniques.

Effects of Myofascial Release

Contributes to improved alignment, balanced muscle function, enhanced movement quality, and pain reduction through treatment of dysfunction.