Myofascial Release Therapy for Chronic Pain

A manual therapy technique used by physical therapists, chiropractors and other rehabilitation specialists, myofascial release can relieve chronic pain due to various medical conditions. The myofascial tissues are the strong connective tissue that cover, connect, protect and support the muscles. Myofascial pain is unlike other types of pain in that it originates in the areas called trigger points within this tissue. Myofascial release (MFR) therapy is a key element in the pain treatment provided at multispecialty health care centers in New York.

Pain Treatment with Myofascial Release

The trigger points responsible for pain are stiff areas within the myofascial tissue and not easy to locate. MFR therapy involves massage targeting a broad area of muscle and tissue rather than specific points.

The therapist will identify the areas that are stiff and tight and then massage these points to release muscular rigidness and tightness. Light manual pressure is used to stretch the area until the tension is released. By easing the restrictions on muscle and joint movements, this massage therapy can help relieve pain.

Conditions Treated with this Manual Therapy

• Loss of flexibility or function following an injury
• Soft tissue injuries
• Shoulder, neck, hip, and back pain
• Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Chronic headache

MFR techniques can improve fibromyalgia pain. Fibromyalgia is a chronic medical condition characterized by pain in various parts of the body, joint stiffness, disrupted sleep patterns, fatigue, anxiety, depression and other symptoms. A study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) in 2011 reported that myofascial therapy improved pain and quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia.

This manual massage therapy is also used to treat sports injuries such as repetitive strain injuries and muscular imbalances leading to joint stress and flawed movements.

Contraindications

Though it comes with few risks, MFR techniques are not the appropriate option for all patients. Contraindications for this massage therapy include but are not limited to:

• Malignant conditions aneurysm
• Acute rheumatoid arthritis
• Advanced diabetes
• Severe osteoporosis
• Healing fractures
• Burns, injuries, or painful wounds
• Deep vein thrombosis or deep vein issues

If you have been told that MFR can help with your pain, consult an experienced physical therapist.

Get a Comprehensive Evaluation

In an established NY rehabilitation center, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation by a physical therapist to determine if myofascial release is the right technique for you. This will include a musculoskeletal physical exam, postural assessment, and strength and range of motion testing.

As a leading multi-specialty healthcare center in Brooklyn, New York City, HealthQuest offers quality care and sophisticated services. Our unique approach to patient care ensures fast return to a pain-free lifestyle.