What Is Myofascial Release and How Can It Help with Chronic Pain?

What Is Myofascial Release and How Can It Help with Chronic Pain?

Last Edited:

Oct 7, 2024

Read Time:

3 min

If you’ve been struggling with persistent pain, restricted movement, or unexplained tension, you may have tried various treatments with limited success. Sometimes, the key to relief lies deeper than just addressing the muscles—this is where myofascial release comes in. At EmbodiedWork, myofascial release is one of our go-to techniques for addressing chronic pain and helping clients regain their mobility.

What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial release is a hands-on therapy designed to release restrictions in the fascia—a connective tissue that wraps around your muscles, nerves, and organs, providing support and structure. When the fascia becomes tight or restricted due to injury, stress, or prolonged tension, it can cause discomfort, limit range of motion, and contribute to chronic pain. Unlike traditional massage techniques that focus solely on the muscles, myofascial release targets these deeper layers of connective tissue.

At EmbodiedWork, we use sustained pressure without oils or lotions, allowing us to engage directly with the fascia and release adhesions that may be contributing to your pain. This approach helps restore flexibility, improve blood flow, and relieve deep-seated tension that other therapies might miss.

How Does Myofascial Release Work?

The process begins with a full-body assessment to identify areas of tightness and imbalance. During a session, gentle yet firm pressure is applied to the fascia, holding it for an extended period until the tissue begins to soften and release. Unlike the quick, rhythmic strokes used in traditional massage, myofascial release involves slow, intentional movements that allow the fascia to relax gradually. This helps release chronic holding patterns, reducing pain and improving overall function.

Myofascial release is especially beneficial for clients experiencing:

  • Chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia or lower back pain

  • Restricted movement due to injuries or surgeries

  • Muscle tension and tightness that doesn’t respond to traditional massage

  • Postural imbalances that cause discomfort and fatigue

The Benefits of Myofascial Release

By targeting the fascia, myofascial release offers several benefits beyond temporary relief:

  1. Long-lasting Pain Relief: Addressing fascial restrictions can reduce the pressure on nerves and muscles, leading to more sustainable pain relief.

  2. Improved Mobility and Flexibility: Releasing tight fascia helps improve range of motion, making it easier to move freely and comfortably.

  3. Enhanced Blood Flow: By increasing circulation, this therapy supports the body’s natural healing processes and reduces inflammation.

  4. Stress Reduction: Many clients find that releasing deep-seated fascial tension also relieves emotional stress, leaving them feeling lighter and more at ease.

What to Expect During a Myofascial Release Session

If it’s your first time trying myofascial release at EmbodiedWork, here’s what you can expect:

  • We start with a consultation to understand your pain points and goals.

  • A full-body assessment is performed with clothes on to pinpoint areas of tension.

  • The treatment involves sustained, targeted pressure directly on the skin without the use of oils or lotions. This allows us to effectively engage the fascia for deeper, more lasting results.

  • Sessions are customized to your needs, and we recommend booking a 75 or 90-minute session for first-time clients to allow ample time for both assessment and treatment.

Is Myofascial Release Right for You?

Myofascial release is an excellent choice if you’ve tried other therapies without achieving lasting results or if you’re looking for a deeper, more holistic approach to pain relief. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply want to improve your flexibility, this therapy can help you feel more at ease in your body.

Curious to see how myofascial release can transform your pain? Book a session with us today and take the first step toward long-term relief and wellness.