Myofacsial pain is common in chiropractic patients. This is one of the reasons chiropractic therapy is often the choice when dealing with these types of pain. Typical examples of myofascial pain locations include the back, neck and other muscular parts of the body.
Because the myofascial tissue covers large areas including connective tissue and muscle, pain can usually trace its roots to these tissues in the body.
How does myofascial release therapy work?
Myofascial therapy uses a massage technique that requires the physician to apply pressure to the trigger areas. Sometimes, chiropractors will use the anchor-and-stretch technique of massage which allows for long hand strokes starting at one point and extending down the length of the problematic area.
The chiropractor or physiotherapistl therapist massages the area until the tension and tightness are released.
This treatment is effective for myofascial pain because it targets the trigger points. These areas are the ones affected most by the pain it is sometimes considered the original source of the pain.
How long does treatment last?
Myofascial therapy treatment is long-lasting and the patient may require several sessions over 3 and even 4 months before they feel better. The alternative approach is never an overnight solution, but it is better for the long-term. With this therapy you can enjoy:
- Better flexibility in the muscle’s as the tension is slowly worked out
- Experience better range as the muscles becomes more mobile
- Therapy helps to reduce the inflammation in the area affected
- You could leave the OTC medications once the pain has subsided
Who is at risk of experiencing myofascial pain?
Sometimes pain occurs when stress is applied to certain muscles and when this is the case on a continuous level, it could lead to chronic pain. Lifestyle choices and work conditions could also be a leading factor as to why people suffer from tension in their fascia.
- Middle-aged people
- Patients who had suffered an injury
- Trauma
- Emotional stress results in tension
What are the advantageous of myofascial release therapy?
Excellent for treating headaches and neck pain
People can benefit from this if they experience frequent headaches. Sometimes the neck muscles are tense and that tension spans all the way up to the head causing tension headaches. Loosening these knots helps to reduce this problem.
Helps to improve posture and reduce recurring injuries or pain
Myofascial release is also beneficial for better posture. Your practitioner may teach you some techniques to help improve your posture. This will lower the risks of reoccurring injuries and pain.
Good for blood circulation
The treatment encourages blood circulation which is essential for the well-being of tissue, muscles and organs.
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Myofascial Frequently Asked Questions
What is myofascial tissue?
Myofascial tissue is found throughout the body. It’s robust, yet fibrous in composition. The function is to provide support as a connective tissue as well as protection for the bones and muscles in the body.
What is myofascial release technique?
Myofascial release technique is a special form of massage focused on the myofascial tissues of the body. Its massage process targets the pain related to these fibrous tissues.
What is the best treatment for myofascial pain?
One of the most effective treatments is also a natural alternative to pain medication and that is physio therapy. Some physio therapy treatments for myofascial pain include:
- Assisted, gentle stretches to help alleviate pain in the affected muscle area
- Heat therapy for help to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation
- Massage may include applying pressure to the tensed muscles
- Posture training can help to ease future muscle injuries
- Ultrasound methods help in increase in blood circulation and heat within the affected muscle
All the above physiotherapy helps to promote healing naturally.
What causes myofascial pain syndrome?
There are many reasons why people could experience myofascial pain syndrome. Some include muscle injury, tightness in the muscles and prolonged muscle strain that could affect the trigger points resulting in myofascial pain.
Does myofascial pain ever go away?
It’s harder to “get rid” of myofascial pain when it becomes a chronic condition. Practitioners refer to it as “trigger points”. These are the areas that become more inflamed and painful.
Chronic pain is longer lasting and may not simply go away after one treatment session and or using pain medication. Sometimes doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory medication for this, but frequent myofascial treatment can help manage the pain.