Pathfinder Therapy LLC
What is Myofascial Release?
Not your average Massage Session!
Myofascial Release, or MFR, is a subtle bodywork style that involves the softening of the connective tissue of the body by way of
gentle hands-on contact. Using traction, compression, range of motion,
applying strain and counter strain to the skeletal structures of the body and
holding these techniques for a minimum of 3-5 minutes, we begin to see and feel
a softening in the connective tissue, called fascia.
Fascia is compromised of three elements: collagen,
elastin and ground substances. Elastin gives our tissue flexibility and the
ability to move. Collagen supports and attaches/binds/adheres tissue to tissue,
structure, viscera, etc. These two tissue types create the map-work of the
body, the pathways for our nerves to transmit information to and from the
brain. This is also where muscle memory is stored.
Ground substance, also called interstitial fluid, is
primarily fluids, chemicals and trace minerals. Ground substance is
present everywhere in the body because of our need to hydrate and survive. Our
circulatory system helps to bring the fluids we need to these tissues. Our
lymphatic, endocrine, digestive, and excretory systems help us remove wastes
our body produces and processes. Ground substance is the stuff that unites our
entire body through the fibers of collagen and elastin in the body... this is
how everything is connected. Our body is 80% liquid, and much of this is ground
substance, enriched and revitalized by our blood,
When the body is at rest, the fluid flow of the body is
steady. When tissue is restricted, congested or damaged from injury or trauma,
the body must find ways to detour around these restrictions. This detour and
redirection of resources and fluids results in a use of more energy and can
fatigue the body. The site of the adhesion is now not getting properly
hydrated. Hydration starts at the cellular level. If the cells of the tissue
are not getting any nutrients, hydration or any of the important elements we
need to function and stay healthy, it begins to tighten up as a means of
protecting the body. The problem is, unless this tightening is treated, the
fascial thickening repeats for days at a time, and can result in tension,
knots, trigger points or even greater illnesses and diseases at later stages.
