Treatments

Myofascial Release

Myofascia is derived from the Latin words 'myo' meaning muscle and 'fascia' meaning band. In medical terms, Janet Travell M.D. used the term Myofascia in referring to musculoskeletal pain syndrome and trigger points. Here the term Myofascial Release refers to soft tissue manipulation techniques and has become better know due to Ida Rolf who pioneered the fascial manipulative treatment now known as 'Rolfing'.

Fascia sometimes referred to as 'connective tissue' is a seamless web that surrounds, invests and connects every muscle, muscle fibre, nerve, organ and bone in our bodies. The most interesting aspect of the fascial system is that it is not just a system of separate coverings but in fact one structure from head to foot. In this way you can see that each part of the body is connected to every other part by this fascial web. Fascia plays a hugely important role in the support of our bodies. Our bones can be thought of as 'tent poles', which could not stay upright without the constant stabilising tension/pull of the fascia.

Injuries, stress, inflammation, trauma and poor posture can cause restrictions to fascia. Since fascia is an interconnected web, restrictions or tightness in one part of the body can over time, cause pain and discomfort in other parts of the body. This can be likened to the pull in a sweater. The aim of Myofascial Release is to release the restriction and restore normality.

There are two types of Myofascial Release; Direct and Indirect methods.

Direct

This type of MFR works directly with the restricted fascia. Fingers, knuckles or elbows 'sink' into the restriction and apply a gentle stretch. Direct MFR seeks for changes in the Myofascial structures by stretching. If the stretch is applied slowly enough the stretch will make the tissue 'plasticize' and will retain that stretch, if it is done too quickly there will be no lasting change. When done correctly, there can be immediate visual improvement.

Indirect

This method of MFR involves a very gentle stretch and hands tend to go with the restriction, hold the stretch and wait for the tissue to 'unwind' itself. The gentle traction applied and the heat created from both the stretch and from the hands assists in the 'melting' of the restriction. Blood flow to the area is increased promoting the body's inherent ability to heal itself, therefore eliminating pain and restoring function.

Myofascial Release can:

• Increase energy
• Restore muscular function and postural alignment
• Relieve physical strain
• Promote relaxation
• Reduce pain and discomfort