Myofascial release therapy
Myofascial release therapy is a soft tissue therapy technique that treats problems involving muscle, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. It involves hands-on examination to evaluate the texture, tension and movement of underlying soft tissues. After determining the cause of the injured tissue, we treat our patients by using specific patient active movement patterns to alleviate tension and improve mobility of the affected area.
Injuries can be categorized into 3 different types: acute, repetitive strain or constant pressure/tension. Injury to any soft tissue heals by a fibrous process which often leaves tough, dense scar tissue in the affected area. Scar tissue can bind up and tie down tissues that are needed for joints to move freely. As scar tissue continues to build, the muscles can become shorter and weaker. Increased tension on tendons can lead to tendonitis, which can cause nerves to become entrapped. Pain, soreness, numbness, tingling, weakness, restricted movement or reduced performance may develop. This scar tissue alters the texture of the tissue and ultimately contributes to pain and decreased movement and function of the associated area.
Conditions successfully treated by myofascial release therapy include: muscle strains, neck and back pain, upper cross syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, tennis and golfer’s elbow, rotator cuff strain, ligament sprains, nerve irritation, sciatica, numbness and tingling. Treatment utilizing myofascial release techniques offer improvements in strength, speed, and endurance which has benefited many with athletic, workplace, chronic pain, and repetitive strain injuries.
