The Value Of Myofascial Release Therapy

By Young Lindsay


There are many reasons why people experience trauma to the fascia. It may be the result of overuse, injury, inactivity, infection and a number of other reasons. Myofascial release therapy is a safe, gentle, effective way to treat this problem. It deals with the restrictions in the connective tissue, helping to stimulate lymphatic and blood circulation. Pain is reduced and flexibility is increased as a result.

A connective tissue web known as the fascia surrounds every tendon, ligament, muscle, bone and organ in the body. This cushion of connective tissue supports and protects, allowing for comfortable motion. When healthy, the tissue is relaxed but it becomes tight when damaged. Blood circulation is restricted and pain can be severe. Loosening and stretch the fascia is necessary for healing to take place, allowing all the contiguous structures to move more freely.

Symptoms experienced by individuals are varied, including muscle pain and spasms, headaches, sciatica, chronic neck and back pain. Some people experience pins and needles or numbness and others have breathing problems. Many people experiencing fascia trauma are not diagnosed properly as it cannot be picked up on tests like X rays. They may suffer for some time and undergo many unsuccessful treatments.

Those performing this type of therapy have to go through specific training. Many different courses are available, including ones aimed at those who are already graduates like occupational and physical therapists or osteopathic physicians. This is a different type of treatment to massage and various practical techniques have to be mastered. The therapist must be able to identify the areas requiring treatment and then move carefully through every restriction, applying just the right kind of pressure for the right amount of time.

The first appointment will be devoted to establishing the extent of the restriction and suggesting a treatment plan. Follow up sessions may be held weekly or more than once a week. They may continue for weeks or even months, depending on the progress made. The progress is evident by reduced pain and increased range of motion experienced by the patient.

With some other treatments, machines, oils and creams may be used. This treatment uses none of these as they may actually prevent identification of problem areas. The hands of the therapist do all the work. They carefully identify the problems and apply sustained pressure in a safe and gentle manner.

Deeper pressure may be required but this never becomes intolerable for the client. To prevent this, the therapist keeps communicating with the client and remains sensitive to the level of pain experienced. The idea is not to force the fascia but to allow it to loosen naturally. The client may experience a slight sensation of burning or stretching.

There are many different therapists offering this type of treatment. Some are more qualified and experienced than others, making it important to check credentials before just randomly selecting one. If one is found online, it is usually possible to read testimonials from grateful clients. This is often very helpful when trying to make the right decision.




About the Author:



Aucun commentaire:

Enregistrer un commentaire