Myofascial Release Therapy
What is Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR)?
Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR) is a hands-on manual therapy focused on relieving pain and restoring movement by addressing restrictions in the fascia—the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, nerves, and organs.
What is fascia?
Fascia is a continuous, web-like tissue that runs throughout the entire body. In a healthy state it is:
Elastic
Hydrated
Able to glide smoothly
When fascia becomes tight, dehydrated, or scarred—due to injury, repetitive strain, surgery, inflammation, stress, or poor posture—it can restrict movement and create pain, sometimes far from the original source.
What happens in Myofascial Release?
Unlike traditional massage (which often uses rhythmic pressure and oil), MFR:
Uses slow, sustained pressure
Works without oil so the therapist can engage the fascia directly
Holds pressure for 90 seconds or longer, allowing the tissue to soften and lengthen
Follows the body’s natural release patterns rather than forcing movement
The goal is to release fascial restrictions so muscles, joints, and nerves can function normally again.
What conditions can it help?
Myofascial Release is commonly used for:
Chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain
Headaches and migraines
Sciatica and hip pain
Plantar fasciitis
TMJ dysfunction
Fibromyalgia
Post-surgical scar restriction
Sports and repetitive-use injuries
Limited range of motion or postural issues
Because fascia is interconnected, treatment may be applied away from the site of pain.
How is it effective?
Myofascial Release works at a structural and neurological level, helping to:
Reduce chronic tension patterns
Improve circulation and lymphatic flow
Restore joint mobility
Decrease nerve compression
Support long-term pain relief rather than temporary relaxation
How is it different from Massage or Deep Tissue?
Massage Therapy
Uses oil
Rhythmic strokes
Targets muscles
Shorter pressure
Symptom relief
Dr. Christina Barton Info
Myofascial Release
No Oil
Sustained holds
Targets fascia
Long, slow pressure
Long, slow pressure