What is Myofascial Release?

What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial release is a dry massage treatment, meaning it only uses the natural oils of your skin and the therapist’s hands throughout the session. While this technique may seem like it would cause skin burn, it does not. It avoids this  through the application of slow, steady pressure. Instead of applying kinetic force toward the floor, the therapist applies pressure at an oblique angle, which allows the therapist to move millimeter by millimeter, second by second, moving forward only when the skin’s natural oils permit it. This slow, dry  and deliberate approach to massage encourages a sensations that feels like a deep, subtle micro stretch.

While most agree this treatment is highly effective, many debate how and why it works. This treatment’s namesake, myofascial release, infers the therapist can manipulate the fascia through the application of light to medium pressure. Additionally, it is widely believed that when the therapist’s hand glides over the body, it does so because the fascia is melting under the pressure of the therapist’s hand., which they claim is evidence of facial distortion.

While this theory is fascinating, there is a lack of quality science-based evidence supporting it. The force required to distort the the fascia in any meaningful way is well beyond the upper limits of pressure the body could withstand. For example, the bridge of the nose is the weakest fascia of the body. To distort this area would require nearly 2,000 lbs of pressure. This amount of kinetic force is well beyond the pressure applied within a myofascial release session.

Rather than focusing on unsubstantiated claims of myofascial release, I focus my efforts on client education, advocacy and the effectiveness of my massage sessions. It is my belief that as a wellness provider we should pursue the most likely truth. Additionally we should pass along the most accurate information to our clientele. Knowledge allows for greater wisdom, and the wiser we become, the greater likelihood we may achieve greater results in life. It is my goal to help provide you with the best and most accurate information, so you may effectively advocate for yourself and live your highest quality life.