How Myofascial Release Massage Can Alleviate Pain Throughout The Body

By Kathryn Neal


Myofascial Release Massage is a version of traditional massage therapy that is being used more and more to help get rid of chronic pain in sufferers who have not had any luck with other therapies. The term Myofascial means muscles (myo) and elastic band (fascia). It is performed by using a series of gentle stretches to manipulate the muscles and tissues.

A massage therapist that has specialized training in this technique used their hands to apply pressure and strokes in a gentle manner to the fibrous tissues to help loosen and relax them. This can be done for the joints, nerves, muscles and bones, and can loosen and release old scar tissue that has built up due to injury or even aging.

The techniques commonly used in this type of treatment are slow, steady and they use traction and gentle twisting motions to relax and contract the muscle groups. This also applies tension to the appropriate tissues that can promote healing and wellness in the body, using a preemptive type of approach instead of just treating the problem after it occurs.

There are many types of problems that this therapy has been used to help with, including anxiety, depression, fibromyalgia and other chronic pain issues, as well as spinal problems, which include scoliosis, or curvature of the spine and accompanying pain problems. It is even been used in some treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome or other repetitive motion injuries. Migraine headache sufferers are also getting some relief, as well as menstrual pain and the aches of arthritis.

The practitioner who performs this type of therapy can be either a massage therapist with specialized training in this area, an osteopathic physician, a chiropractor, sports medicine doctor, or an occupational or physical therapist. They all should have had extensive training in this specialized method of treatment and experience in treating patients with many various issues.

Typical sessions can be expected to last between 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the severity of the pain and locations in the body. The first appointment will likely be longer, as the practitioner will take a history and a physical exam to determine the best course of treatment to take. They could take place at a clinic or any other types of facilities and you may need to be seen daily or a few times a week, especially in the beginning to start treatment. Depending on the success, the therapy can last just a matter of weeks or could go much longer.

Other complementary treatments may be suggested in conjunction with this therapy, such as medications. These may include Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAID's) to help with the swelling and pain, as well as ice or heat applied directly to the sore areas. A daily habit of gentle stretches may also be recommended to help keep muscles loose and relaxed in-between treatments and to hopefully avoid any further injury.

It is possible that even children may benefit and get some relief from myofascial release massage. Before seeking treatment, check out the credentials of the professional and if possible, get a personal reference from someone who has been seen by them. Pain relief may be possible and done in a more natural way without drugs.




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