Treating Myofascial Pain
Myofascial release is a manual treatment technique to address myofascial pain. “Myo” refers to muscle and “fascia” refers to connective tissue which surrounds and compartmentalizes muscles from each other. Myofascial pain is a chronic pain disorder characterized by tightened muscles and/or tissue resulting in localized or referred pain. In addition, sensitive areas called trigger points may form in muscles after chronic shortening, injury, or overuse. These trigger points often feel like little knots within the muscle and they are usually very painful to touch.
A Myofascial Massage Applies Gentle Pressure Near Trigger Points
Myofascial release reduces pain and strain by using a hands-on method that applies constant, gentle pressure over a broad area of muscle near these trigger points, easing the tension and tightness of the myofascial tissues. The gentle pressure onto these tissues will allow the tissues to slowly elongate and relax, loosening the muscles and relieving the pain.
Our Physical Therapists in NYC Are Trained in Myofascial Release Therapy
Physical therapists are trained in a variety of manual skills, including myofascial release, to treat trigger points. Some of the areas addressed may seem far from the origin of pain. That is because myofascial release works over a broad range of muscle networks that could be creating pain to reduce tension throughout the entire body. The physical therapist will continue to look for these stiff areas throughout the body and gently massage these areas until they feel that the tension is fully released.
Myofascial Release Has Other Benefits
Aside from individuals experiencing myofascial pain, myofascial release can benefit people who experience chronic headaches and those who have venous insufficiency. For chronic headaches, these gentle but firm massages can help release tension in the neck and head muscles that could be causing the headaches. For those suffering from venous insufficiency, a condition where blood pools in leg veins, myofascial release can be used along with other treatments to reduce blood pooling, thus reducing pain in the leg. Studies have shown that myofascial release can also relieve back pain by relieving the tension in the back muscles.
Beyond relieving pain in muscle tissues, myofascial release can be used as a precursor or in conjunction with many other treatments, such as connective tissue manipulation and soft tissue mobilization. It complements other treatments, increases their effectiveness, and prepares patients for more demanding forms of stretching and strengthening.
Myofascial Release Therapy Can Help Relieve Pelvic Floor Pain
Pelvic floor muscles can become tightened and develop trigger points after prolonged shortening. This can result in dyspareunia (pain during vaginal penetration) and bladder/bowel dysfunction, such as urinary frequency, incomplete emptying of the bladder, abdominal pain, and constipation. Myofascial release is a powerful technique that can help relieve pelvic floor pain by eliminating trigger points and helping to restore a normalized, relaxed resting tone.
Myofascial Release in New York City
Many individuals who experience pelvic pain benefit significantly benefit from myofascial release, a service offered at Revitalize Physical Therapy. Please contact us with any questions and to learn more about how our services can benefit you. It would be an honor to help you along your healing journey.