Myofascial Release (MFR)
is an effective manual therapy approach advanced by John Barnes, PT. In order to restore optimal motion and function, MFR uses an approach that includes the mind and body. We use the fascia as a handle to find areas that are not moving well (restricted) and that may be putting pressure on delicate parts of you (nerves, for example!) – this abnormal pressure instead of gliding of healthy tissue can certainly send ‘danger’ signals to the brain and prolonged messages of danger/compression can sensitize the nervous system. We use MFR to help restore the normal gliding and pressures.
The fascia is a three-dimensional, whole-body system which supports and protects the spine, the brain, and the craniosacral system, as well as every muscle, nerve, bone, joint, blood vessel, organ, and cell in the body. The majority of the fascia of the body is oriented vertically. There are, however, four major planes of fascia in the body that are oriented in more of a crosswise (or transverse) plane. These four transverse planes are extremely dense. They are called the pelvic floor, respiratory diaphragm, thoracic inlet and cranial base. Frequently, all four of these transverse planes will become restricted when fascial adhesions occur in just about any part of the body. This is because this fascia of the body is all interconnected, and a restriction in one region can theoretically put a “drag” on the fascia in any other direction, like the yarn in a sweater. If the sweater is pulled down in the front, it tightens around the neck, but the neck is not the source of the problem; so with the fascial system, but in a three dimensional sense.
Restrictions are created when the fluid aspect of the fascia called the “matrix” solidifies as a result of physical injury, inflammation, surgery, mental stress, emotional trauma, poor posture, and/or repetitive strain. Restrictions can be as strong as 2000 lbs/in2, significantly interfering with the function of pressure-sensitive structures and vital organs. These restrictions do not appear on standardized tests like x-rays or MRI's. As the body is forced to adapt to unresolved restrictions, abnormal motion and postures develop. Over time, this may lead to weakness, inflammation, malfunction, or other ‘danger’ signals to the brain, sometimes with bizarre or seemingly unrelated symptoms.
MFR treatment includes gentle, hands-on pressure or stretch to soften restrictions. There is more research being done on exactly how this technique works, perhaps through a neurologic or other structural mechanism. We continue to read and follow the current research to learn more about this effective technique.MFR uses a range of treatment pressures like those in deep-tissue body-work, scar release, accupressure, gentle massage, craniosacral, and energy work -- all without forcing any barrier. This inherently safe process facilitates the body’s natural ability to “unwind”, release subconscious holding patterns, and thus reintegrate the body, nervous system, and mind. The result is significant change which is measurable and functional.
Treating Fascial Restrictions
Muscle provides the greatest bulk of our body’s soft tissue. Because all muscle is enveloped by and ingrained with fascia, myofascial release is the term that has been given to the techniques that are used to relieve soft tissue from the abnormal grip of tight fascia (“myo” means “Muscle”).
The type of myofascial release technique given by the therapist will depend upon where in your body the therapist finds the fascia restricted.
The therapist needs to be use “skin to skin” contact to provide the friction interface needed to release the fascia effectively. Therefore, the patient should be “comfortably undressed”, wearing, for example a two piece bathing suit, pants and bra or gym shorts and sports bra / tank top.
Myofascial Release treatment sessions are often extremely relaxing. There may or may not be conversation with the therapist, however the therapist encourages the patient to be present and aware of sensations within their body. Feedback from the patient to the therapist regarding what they are feeling helps the therapist to be as effective as possible.
We will work with you to understand how ‘new’ movement may cause those ‘danger’ alarms to sound, but we can assure you that your body has an amazing protective system and that you are safe. We know from current research that you must move, and will help you to understand the ways that your movement can assist in your healing, and how your body protects itself.
If you have any questions concerning myofascial release, please discuss them with your therapist.