HOW FASCIA-NATING! REDUCE PAIN AND TIGHTNESS WITH MYOFASCIAL RELEASE
What Is Myofascial Release?
The fascia is a web-like connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs throughout the body. When this tissue becomes tight or restricted – often due to injury, poor posture, stress, or repetitive strain – it can lead to discomfort, stiffness, and reduced movement.
Myofascial release aims to reduce tightness and restore normal movement. It involves applying sustained, gentle pressure to these restrictions to help release tension, improve blood flow, and encourage healing. This technique can be done through hands-on treatment from one of our physiotherapists, or through active self-release techniques you complete yourself using tools such as a trigger ball or foam roller.
Passive Myofascial Release
Hands on Treatment
Unlike a traditional massage, which focuses on muscles, myofascial release specifically targets the fascia to restore its natural elasticity and alignment. This form of hands-on treatment uses gentle, sustained pressure to specific areas of fascial tightness.
Passive myofascial release is especially useful for:
Reducing chronic muscle pain and tension
Improving postural imbalances
Supporting recovery after injury or surgery
Managing conditions such as fibromyalgia or myofascial pain syndrome
Active Myofascial Release
Trigger Ball & Foam Rolling
Self-myofascial release techniques are often recommended as part of your independent exercise program. Using a trigger ball or foam roller you to apply targeted pressure to your own muscles between sessions, helping to maintain results and manage tension independently.
Trigger Ball Release
Trigger balls are small and firm so they can release tight "knots" or trigger points in the muscles. It’s especially useful for hard-to-reach areas like the glutes, shoulders, calves, and feet. Simply place the ball under the target area, apply pressure using your body weight, and hold for 30–60 seconds or until the tension eases.
Benefits include:
Local muscle relief
Improved flexibility
Easy to use at home, work, or on the go
Foam Rolling
Foam rolling is another self-release technique that uses a cylindrical roller to work on broader muscle groups like the thighs, back, and IT band. Rolling slowly over tight areas can help increase blood flow, reduce muscle soreness, and improve movement patterns.
Key benefits:
Supports recovery after exercise
Reduces muscle tightness and stiffness
Can be integrated into warm-ups or cool-downs
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