7 Benefits of Myofascial Release Massage

Published

November 29, 2021

Authored

Derrick Allen

If you are feeling tight or sore, then a myofascial release massage could be a great solution for you. Here are 7 benefits of this treatment.

Many people experience body pain, with 60 to 85% of the US population experiencing back pain at some point in their lifetime. But what if there was a solution?

One way to address sore or tight muscles is by having a massage. But there are many types of massage to choose from. One option is to have a myofascial release massage, which can offer many benefits. Read on to learn everything you need to know about myofascial release massage.

What Is a Myofascial Release Massage?

Myo- what? You are not alone if this was your first response when you hear about a myofascial release massage. And that is not uncommon, as people are not always familiar with myofascial release.

Myo stands for muscular, and fascia refers to the fibrous bands of connective tissue around areas such as muscles, organs, tendons, nerve fibers, and ligaments in your body. They are made of multiple layers with a liquid called hyaluronan, but sometimes this liquid can dry up, causing tightness and other issues around the muscles. 

A myofascial release massage is different from other types of massage. Myofascial release massage is when the therapist gently applies pressure to areas of the fascia around the body for sustained periods. It helps the areas soften and stretch to release pain.

Myofascial Release Massage Benefits

There are many different myofascial release benefits, which can help you whether you have a myofascial pain diagnosis or not. The reality is that many people with body pain attribute it to specific muscles, but often it is the fascia. Here are the top seven benefits of a myofascial release massage service.  

1. Reduces Pain 

One of the best myofascial release massage benefits is that it can reduce any pain or discomfort you are experiencing. When the fascia trigger points are stimulated, they can release the pressure they are under. These areas of tension are what often cause pain in the body.

It has also been found that people with chronic headaches are also more likely to have myofascial pain. Myofascial release massage therapy helps reduce any associated pain, not just pain around the pressure points. It is often surprising how pain in one area is connected to a completely different part of your body. 

2. Improves Circulation

Myofascial release massage can also help improve circulation around the body. When the therapist releases knots in the body, it allows muscle fibers to loosen; when tight, these areas can impact blood flow, which can exacerbate pain in the body. 

When there is a lack of oxygen from poor blood circulation, you can experience stiffness, weakness, and pain. These issues can worsen over time and lead to more debilitating issues if you do not address them. Myofascial release helps prevent this issue. 

3. Enhances Muscle Mobility and Function

Myofascial release massage helps drain waste from the muscles and fascia, which reduces muscle tightness. The result is that you have a better range of motion, balance, and function in the body. After one or several treatments, you will begin to notice more flexibility, range of motion, and efficient movements. 

When parts of your body are not under tension, then they can function optimally again. It is not uncommon for patients to discover other improved functions such as breathing after a myofascial massage. You will then be able to take more action to maintain the muscles with exercises, stretches, and other treatments.

4. Addresses Stress

It is common to hold stress and other emotions in areas such as the neck, shoulders, hands, hips, or feet. Sometimes past trauma even gets stored within the body, eventually leading to physical pain and other issues.

Myofascial release massage therapy can help you identify the areas you hold the most tension and emotion. You may experience emotional release, such as sadness or anger, for a moment. But releasing these emotions helps improve your physical and emotional wellbeing. 

You will have less tension in the body and become more aware of how you deal with certain emotions. It can help you become more mindful about managing emotions and managing your physical body in difficult moments. 

5. Helps Muscular Recovery

Do you regularly participate in sports? If so, you will not be unfamiliar with DOMS, which stands for Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness. The myofascial release massage can help relieve overall muscle soreness and restore motion to the area, which are two effects of DOMS.

Studies have found that even self-myofascial release massage can help relieve DOMS, so imagine how beneficial a massage from a professional will be! Once you have cleared the tension, you can also focus on other ways to prevent DOMS onset, so DOMS will become more manageable over time. 

6. Prevents Serious Injury

Stressed fascia does not only cause tightness in the body. It can also lead to injuries, which seem similar to symptoms of tendon or muscle strain. You can also prevent overuse injuries with myofascial release massage, as the tension will be released before it develops into a serious injury. 

7. Encourages Relaxation 

Myofascial release massage therapy also helps you relax. It helps calm the nervous system and helps your body let go of the stress it is holding onto. The result is that you can feel more grounded and at peace.

Naturally, if you no longer have pain thanks to myofascial release, you will also feel more relaxed overall. You will be able to participate in activities you enjoy and remain present without being preoccupied with your pain.  

Myofascial Release Massage Near Me

There are many myofascial release massage benefits, but when you experience one yourself, you will understand how beneficial this type of massage can be.

It is important to pick a professional myofascial release massage service. Not all services are created equally, and you need to find a therapist with the right skills to safely perform this type of massage therapy.

Are you ready to find pain relief in Allen, Texas? Allen Therapeutic Massage is here to help, with over twenty years of experience in different massage techniques. Book an appointment today to get started.