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What is Myofascial Release Therapy?

Myofascial Release Therapy is a common technique used in massage therapy. It is focused on relieving tension caused by tight and inflexible myofascial tissues, which can result from past injuries, inflammation, surgical procedures or trauma. 

As a Massage Therapy School in Austin, Texas, we incorporate myofascial release therapy into our curriculum as it is a leading practice in salons and spas around the world.

What are Myofascial Tissues?

Myofascial tissues are the strong membranes responsible for surrounding, connecting and supporting your muscles. When these tissues become tight and inflexible, they limit muscle and joint movement and cause muscle pain.

Pain that arises from myofascial tissues is different from other forms of pain because it starts with a “trigger point” caused by stiff, fastened points within myofascial tissues.

How Myofascial Release Therapy Works

massage therapist performs myofascial release therapy on male patient with back pain

During myofascial release therapy sessions, your massage therapist will work to locate stiff points that should be elastic and flexible when light pressure is applied. Areas of stiffness may not be near the focus of pain, that’s what can make it tricky to identify the problem area.

Myofascial release therapy relies on manual pressure and stretching to release tension and loosen up areas afflicted by restricted movement. As a result, this can reduce discomfort and pain.

Each therapist may have their own specific movements and techniques, which are customized to the patient they are working on. That’s a great thing about this type of therapy, it takes each patient into consideration as a unique individual.

Is Your Pain Invisible on X-Rays & Other Scans?

There are many aches and pains caused by trauma, surgical procedures, past injuries, or an inflammatory response that can result in myofascial restrictions. This can place around 2,000 pounds of tensile pressure per square inch. As a result, it may cause a great deal of pain and worry, especially when nothing shows up on X-Rays, CAT scans, and other medical tests.

Can Myofascial Release Therapy Help Ease Your Pain?

woman gets myofascial release therapy to ease tension in myofascial tissues

If a medical professional, friend, or colleague has told you that myofascial release therapy may help ease your pain and discomfort, it’s worth consulting with a massage therapist who specializes in this field.

Many people have found relief through this form of treatment and so it’s worth giving it a try. Unlike invasive procedures, it’s a relatively risk-free way to try and address pain so you can live your best life.

Looking to get a massage with a focus on myofascial release therapy?

Visit our in-house massage clinic!

Massage Therapy School at Avenue Five Institute

At Avenue Five Institute, we offer hands-on training in massage therapy. We focus on both classic and modern techniques so that our students are prepared for a job in the real world.

Students learn from industry professionals and have a chance to work in real scenarios on clients of varying backgrounds. We are here to support you every step of the way, from your first day of school to long past graduation.

We welcome you to come take a tour of our North Austin Campus. We’d love to help make your dreams come true!  

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