Myofascial Release therapy is a broad set of techniques used by physical therapists and other health care professionals to relieve pain and improve physical functioning through the manipulation of the fascial network.  Fascia is a connective tissue system found throughout the body and is the most abundant tissue in the body.  Unlike other systems, it is unique in that it's a continuous 3-dimensional web that extends from head to toe without interruption.  Appearing similar to that of a spider's web, there is nothing it doesn't touch.  It is the one system in our body that connects all other systems together and is therefore the cornerstone of our overall health and wellbeing.

In the normal, healthy state, fascia is relaxed and well hydrated with the ability to stretch and flex.  This allows our body to move, and to absorb and adapt to stress the way it was designed to.  With injury or trauma (a large umbrella that includes but is not limited to: prolonged poor posture, auto accidents, falls, surgery, repetitive use, mental and emotional stress) fascia loses its pliability.  It becomes tight and dehydrated, sticking to whatever structure it is next to.  When this occurs the result is limited movement, pain and the loss of physical function.  Science has shown that adhesions in the fascial network can create pressure on structures in our body up to 2000 pounds per square inch!  That is like parking a car on some of the most sensitive things in our bodies like nerves and joints.  Without the constant balanced pull of the fascial network there is a loss of equilibrium in the body resulting in pain and dysfunction of one, or more, of our body systems.   

Myofascial Release therapy allows a therapist to engage this 3-dimensional system and manipulate it, releasing adhesions and restoring the body's normal healthy balance.  Using highly specialized and advanced techniques to treat these restrictions takes pressure off of joints, nerves, organs, and improves the flexibility of the muscles and spine.  The end result is improved posture, a reduction in pain, and improvement in the patient's overall health and quality of life.