What Does Myofascial Release Feel Like?

If you struggle with various aches and pains, or if you have suffered a musculoskeletal injury, your care provider might recommend that you undergo a treatment known as myofascial release or trigger point therapy. This non-invasive method can help to relieve pain and improve your quality of life! But what exactly is myofascial release, and what does it feel like? This blog post aims to shed some light on that subject.

Myofascial Release: The Basics

Myofascial release is a form of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). All forms of OMT involve strategic manipulation of the body in order to diagnose or treat various conditions. Myofascial release, in particular, is a form of therapeutic massage that has the goal of releasing tension in your fascial tissues, which cover and support muscles throughout your body.

Normally, myofascial tissue is very flexible. However, when it is damaged or tense, it can lose its flexibility, leading to pain and stiffness throughout the body. The goal of myofascial release is to reduce or eliminate that tension, which can relieve pain, reduce headaches, and increase mobility.

What Does Myofascial Release Feel Like?

During myofascial release, your care provider will apply direct and constant pressure to trigger points, or areas where the fascial tissue is tense. When the tension releases, you might feel a springing sensation. Continued pressure can encourage the tissue to lengthen and regain some of its flexibility.

Beyond pressure and release sensations, you might also experience:

• Tingling or buzzing
• Warmth or coolness
• A softening sensation
• A peeling feeling as the fascial layers are released

At times, you may experience sensations in areas of your body other than the part that is receiving pressure. That is because trigger points can affect both nearby and faraway tissues. In fact, it might take a few sessions before your care provider is able to identify the exact trigger points that are causing your pain.

Does Myofascial Release Hurt?

Myofascial release can be uncomfortable at times. For the most part, though, it is a gentle therapy that does not cause significant pain. You may notice some mild bruising after your sensation, but deep bruises are rare. Any soreness from your session is likely to go away within a few days. After that, you may start to enjoy the benefits of your treatment.

Myofascial release is a non-invasive and effective way to feel better in your body! Talk to your local provider to learn more about how this treatment works.

Meet the Practice

At the Institute for Non-Surgical Orthopedics of Fort Lauderdale, our team is proud to provide a range of conservative and effective treatments that promote musculoskeletal health, including myofascial release and other forms of OMT. If you are interested in exploring therapies that could help your body to feel and function better, contact our office at 954-563-2707.