What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial Release (MFR) is a soft tissue treatment, which differs from deep tissue or sports massage, that involves holding and stretching the tissues for a sustained period of time – typically 3-5 minutes. Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds, binds and weaves around all the structures of the body holding everything together underneath the surface of the skin. The therapist gently places their hands on the body, sinks down into the tissues and feels for restrictions, holding here and waiting for changes in the tissues before deepening or lengthening the stretch. Some people may feel a sense of movement, heat, twisting, lengthening or release during the techniques. The therapist uses awareness of how the tissues want to move (unwinding) and works with the patient’s body to find a position of comfort and ease.
How Can MFR Help You?
This gentle form of soft tissue treatment is beneficial to people with chronic pain, autoimmune conditions, long term injuries and those requiring help with emotional and mental health issues (anxiety, depression, trauma, grief). You may find it beneficial if you suffer from the following:
- Low back pain
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Headaches
- TMJ disorders and jaw pain
- Anxiety and depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic Fatigue
- Pain from stress, overuse, or injury.
MFR techniques not only release tension and adhesions but also emotional and psychological restrictions held in the body. Patients often report feeling lighter, relaxed and peaceful after a session.
What To Expect During MFR Treatment
An MFR treatment session is bespoke to each individual’s needs and body. The art of a listening touch from the therapist, allows the pressure to be modified and adjusted and to follow the movement and signals from within the body – working on a holistic view of injury and illness rather than focussing on a single area or issue. You will be guided to sensations within the body as the techniques are applied, bringing an internal awareness and understanding of how symptoms are presenting in the body. You will be asked to take deep breaths as the therapist sinks deeper in to the tissues. The experience can be a mindful experience that helps create space and understanding for the body to heal itself.
As with a massage, patients are asked to come wearing loose comfortable clothing that can either be moved for treating specific areas of the body or shorts and sports bra depending on the area of treatment. You will remain covered and comfortable at all times, with only the area being treated exposed. Some techniques to the shoulders and upper back may be performed seated.
A series of sessions (4-6) may be recommended to ease long term postural patterns, relieve chronic pain symptoms and for the body to make long-lasting changes. A standalone treatment will offer a mindful, calming and pain-relieving experience too.
MFR treatment (60 mins) – £65.00
Could an MFR treatment be the missing piece of the puzzle in managing and helping find relief from chronic pain?
Book online for an appointment on Monday or Wednesday evenings or Tuesday daytime.
Get in touch
For more information on any of our services or to request an appointment with our team, get in touch today on 01444 441 160 or use the contact form below and a member of the team will get back to you shortly.