Myofascial Release is a very effective hands-on technique which provides sustained pressure into myofascial restrictions, to eliminate pain and restore motion.The theory of Myofascial Release requires an understanding of the fascial system (fascia is connective tissue, Myo is muscle).The fascia is a specialized system of the body, which has an appearance similar to a knit sweater.
Fascia is a very densely woven, covering and interpenetrating every muscle, bone, nerve, artery and vein, as well as all of our internal organs including the heart, lungs, brain and spinal cord.The most interesting aspect of the fascial system is that it is not just a system of separate coverings.It is actually one structure which exists from head to foot without interruption.In this way you can begin to see that each part of the entire body is connected to every other part by the fascia, like yarn in a sweater.
Fascia also plays an important role in the support of our bodies, surrounding and attaching to all structures.These structures would not be able to provide stability without the constant pull of the fascial system.In fact, our bones can be thought of as tent poles, which cannot support the structure without the constant support of the guide wires (or Fascia) to keep an adequate amount of tension to allow the tent (or body) to remain upright with proper equilibrium.
In the normal healthy state, the fascia is relaxed and wavy in configuration.It has the ability to stretch and move without restriction. Traumas have a cumulative effect.When we experience physical trauma, scarring, inflammation, falls, whiplash, surgery, habitual poor posture and repetitive stress injuries, the fascia loses its pliability.It becomes tight, restricted and a source of tension to the rest of the body.These changes in the fascial system influence the comfort and functioning of our body.The fascia can exert excessive pressure, and producing pain or restriction of motion, affecting our flexibility and stability.It is a determining factor in our ability to withstand stress and strain. |
