Unlocking the Power of Myofascial Release (MFR)

I was waiting for surgery to have my knee repaired. There was a tear in my meniscus, revealed by the MRI, that couldn’t possibly repair itself since that part of the meniscus lacks bloodflow. Prior to that prognosis I had already tried physiotherapy, chiropractics and acupuncture. While on an eight month waitlist for my surgery (and that was prior to the pandemic) someone suggested Myofascial Release Therapy. What did I have to lose?

What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial release therapy is a unique approach to treating pain and restoring mobility. The therapy focuses on the fascia in our bodies.  Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds every single organ, blood vessel, bone, nerve fiber as well as muscle inside your body. It is everywhere! More than just being responsible for the internal stability of your body’s framework, fascia possesses nerves that make it sensitive. Recent research has unveiled the remarkable communication capabilities of fascia within the body. That could unlock new avenues for therapeutic interventions, enhance sports performance, and improve ways of healing our bodies. Fascinating stuff!

Normally, your fascia exists in a very fluid, loose and relaxed state.  It could get damaged due to various factors such as trauma (injury), repetitive movements, poor posture, or inflammation. In my meniscus case, it was probably caused from running and playing badminton, both pretty hard on the knees. When your fascia is damaged, it will become tight and restricted somewhere in your body. This can lead to pain, limited range of motion, and decreased functionality.

How does it work?

The primary goal of myofascial release therapy is to alleviate pain and restore normal function by releasing tension and adhesions within the fascia. Skilled therapists apply gently increasing, sustained pressure to specific areas of the body. Pressure in particular trigger points and areas of restriction is continued for at least five minutes, depending on the severity of damage to the fascia. By manipulating the fascia they unravel its tightness and restore fluidity, improving blood circulation, increase flexibility, and promote overall healing.

Here is a great link to a Fascia documentary on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3uK92zS8qq8

 

Is there any scientific evidence for MFR?

While myofascial release therapy has gained popularity in recent years, you may wonder about the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. Let’s explore some key studies and research findings:

1. 1. Pain Reduction: Numerous studies have shown that myofascial release therapy can effectively reduce pain in various conditions, including chronic low back pain, fibromyalgia, and temporomandibular disorders. For instance, a randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics demonstrated significant pain reduction in patients with chronic low back pain after receiving myofascial release therapy.

1. 1. Improved Range of Motion: Research has also shown promising results in terms of improving range of motion. A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that myofascial release therapy significantly increased range of motion in patients with shoulder adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) compared to a control group receiving conventional physical therapy.

1. 1. Enhanced Athletic Performance: Athletes and sports enthusiasts can benefit from myofascial release therapy as well. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research highlighted the positive impact of myofascial release on hip flexibility and performance in collegiate track and field athletes.

1. 1. Psychological Well-being: In addition to physical benefits, myofascial release therapy has been associated with improved psychological well-being. A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that myofascial release therapy significantly reduced anxiety levels and increased overall quality of life in breast cancer survivors.

Can MFR benefit your heart?

Well, so far we don’t know. Fascia is involved in a more structural sense but I’m sure more future research will reveal other important aspects.

• • Mechanical Support: Fascia provides structural support to the heart, anchoring it within the chest cavity and maintaining its optimal positioning. This support helps minimize the strain on the heart and allows it to function efficiently.

• • Electrical Conduction: Fascia contains specialized cells called fibroblasts, which contribute to the electrical conduction system of the heart. These cells aid in transmitting electrical signals, ensuring proper coordination and rhythm of cardiac contractions.

• • Protection and Cushioning: Fascia acts as a protective layer, shielding the heart from external forces and impacts. It also provides a cushioning effect, reducing the risk of injury and trauma to this vital organ.

MFR and cancer

The relationship between fascia and cancer is an area of ongoing research and holds intriguing possibilities. Here’s a glimpse into what scientists are discovering:

Fascia as a Pathway: Fascia has been identified as a potential pathway for the spread of cancer cells. Studies have shown that cancer cells can migrate along fascial planes, facilitating their metastasis to distant sites within the body. Understanding these pathways could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.

In a nutshell

 Myofascial release therapy is a specialized approach to pain relief and improved functionality by targeting the fascia. Early scientific evidence supports its effectiveness in reducing pain, improving range of motion, enhancing athletic performance, and promoting psychological well-being.

So, whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to optimize your body’s potential, myofascial release therapy could be the key to unlocking incredible health benefits.

It did just that for me. After about eight treatments the pain in my knee was gone…from one day to the next. It was incredible and I was ecstatic. My orthopedic surgeon was in disbelief and told me it was ‘temporary’. Well, without surgery, I’ve been pain free for six years now. I am playing all kinds of sports except long distance running and badminton (listen to your body!) and I thank myofascial relief therapy!

If you’re interested in learning more about myofascial release therapy, check out the work of John F. Barnes, the founder of the Myofascial Release Approach. His book, “Healing Ancient Wounds: The Renegade’s Wisdom,” is a great resource for anyone interested in the therapyY