Myofascial Release Therapy

*There are 3 different methods of MFR Therapy offered at Moyer Total Wellness. If you are not already working with a specific MFR therapist, please call to book so we can match you with the most appropriate therapist for your needs. (303)756-9355

Myofascial Release (MFR) is a gentle form of bodywork that helps loosen restrictions in the connective tissue, aka fascia. It is performed on a table like massage, but in loose shorts and a sports bra for women. It involves slow sinking into the tissue, light contra-directional movement of the hands to separate bound tissue, and light traction-ing of the extremities. No oils will be used in this service. Pillows will sometimes be added for comfort and support.

Myofascial Release encourages the client to increase their interoception, or internal awareness. It often brings them into what is called a hypnagogic state. This is a state between waking and sleeping that promotes openness, a calm nervous system, and physiological restoration.

This form of bodywork is especially beneficial for chronic pain, recovery from surgeries (after the first 6-8 weeks of healing), and poor posture.

Traditional Massage vs Myofascial Release

MFR differs from Swedish massage in that it directly addresses the connective tissue. The therapist will first do a postural evaluation to find how the local site of pain affects the whole body. Because fascia surrounds and connects into nearly everything in the body, one area of tension will pull on the entire system. Rather than gliding over the skin and kneading into the muscles an MFR therapist will slowly sink into the bound tissue, and once the tissue has softened they will gently move their hands in opposite directions until the fascia resists. They will rest at that end point until the fascia gives again, repeating this process throughout the body at all the correlated areas of imbalance. This process recreates space for fluids to move through the once dehydrated and tough tissue, allowing nutrients to flow in and toxins to flow out.

Benefits of Myofascial Release Therapy

• Relaxes the nervous system
• Promotes sense of well-being
• Decreases & eliminates pain
• Reduces stress hormones
• Improves immune function
• Increases mobility and muscle function
• Restores balance and correct posture
• Injury/surgery recovery and rehabilitation
• Promotes body and emotional awareness
• Can be used for athletic performance enhancement and maintenance

Contraindications

Some contraindications are global—those that entirely prevent someone from being treated such as a fever, deep vein thrombosis, and an aneurysm. Others are local and simply prevent that area of the body from being treated such as:

• New scar from surgery or injury
• Open wound
• Healing fracture
• Infectious skin condition
• Direct site of radiation therapy
• Acute inflammation
• Severe varicose veins

Rolfing® Structural Integration

Though there are some differences between Rolfing and myofascial release, fundamentally they are based on the same techniques. Take a look at our Rolfing services to learn more.