Myofascial Release Therapy
Myofascial release is an osteopathic technique that helps to release tension within the body’s fascia network. Fascia is a thin tissue that covers all the organs of the body, every muscle and every fibre within each muscle.
By releasing these tissues Osteopathic practitioner relieves obstructions or stress.
When muscle fibres are injured, the fibres and the fascia which surround it become short and tight.
This uneven stress can be transmitted through the fascia to other parts of the body, causing pain and symptoms like back strain, cervical pain, dizziness, carpal tunnel syndrome and more.
Osteopathic practitioner finds the areas of tightness, applies a light stretch and waits for the tissue to relax. Then the stretch is increases.
This process is repeated until the area is fully relaxed, and then the next area is stretched.
How does myofascial release therapy work?
Myofascial release therapy focuses on the gentle manipulation to alleviate tension in your body’s fascia, the connective tissue network that surrounds muscles and organs. It works on multiple levels: from surface area to very deep down muscles, and is often combined with other osteopathic techniques such as joint manipulation or visceral mobilization. This can reduce the intensity of pain and discomfort
Myofascial release therapy may help you manage symptoms of the following conditions:
- Headaches, including migraines and tension headaches
- TMJ and Face pain.
- Chronic back and neck pain.
- Pregnancy discomfort and postpartum care.
- Chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia.
What to expect on your first visit.
A myofascial release therapy session resembles massage therapy but allows you to remain fully clothed for added comfort. During your initial appointment at Annex Osteopathy, we’ll engage in conversations about your overall well-being and specific discomforts, tailoring our approach accordingly to address your individual needs and objectives.
Osteopathic practitioner will ensure your comfort throughout the session. They’ll explain each step before gently applying pressure to areas of tension in your head, neck, back, or other areas of concern. If you ever feel uneasy, feel free to communicate with your therapist.
Throughout the session, your comfort and feedback will be prioritized, allowing for adjustments as needed to optimize the effectiveness of the treatment.
Also, based on the nature of your heath concerns, the treatment may also include other modalities such as craniosacral, visceral mobilization or lymphatic drainage to make sure that we address the issue holistically.
What to expect from your Myofascial Release Treatment
A myofascial release session typically lasts between 30 minutes to one hour, and achieving your desired outcomes may require multiple sessions.
Individual experiences and treatment goals vary, leading to differing results. Ongoing research aims to further understand the effectiveness of myofascial release therapy for various medical conditions.
Following a myofascial release session, some individuals may experience immediate relief from their symptoms. Myofascial release therapy offers a range of benefits, aiding in the release of tension and tightness within the body’s fascial network. You may notice:
Pain relief. Relaxation. Improved emotional well-being. Stress relief.
Some people might require a few days for their body to fully integrate the effects of the treatment on their physical condition. The timeframe for observing results varies depending on your treatment objectives, potentially spanning multiple sessions over several weeks to months.
After your myofascial release treatment session, it’s essential to prioritize self-care to maximize the benefits of the therapy. Firstly, ensure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to help flush out toxins released during the session and to keep your tissues hydrated. Engaging in gentle movement, such as walking or light stretching, can help maintain the flexibility and mobility gained during the treatment.
Pay attention to any changes in your body and how you feel in the following days, noting any improvements or areas that may still require attention. It’s also advisable to follow any post-treatment recommendations provided by your osteopathic practitioner, which may include specific exercises, stretches, or lifestyle adjustments to support ongoing recovery and promote overall well-being. Lastly, scheduling regular follow-up sessions as recommended can help sustain the positive effects of the treatment over time.
Call Annex Osteopathy today (416) 550-0143 to book appointment.