Myofascial release is a form of physical therapy for myofascial pain syndrome, a chronic pain disorder caused by sensitivity and tightness in muscle tissues.

Myofascial pain often occurs due to tightness/contraction of muscles and the thin tissues surrounding them, known as fascia. Tightness in specific areas can occur in the immediate area (localized) or other parts of the body (referred).

The pain may originate from specific points within your myofascial tissues called “trigger points.” Myofascial release focuses on reducing pain by easing the tension and tightness in the trigger points. While some people may find benefits in myofascial release therapy, research into its efficacy is limited.

In this article, we discuss the mechanisms of myofascial release therapy, its potential benefits, and associated risks.

Most myofascial release treatments take place during a massage therapy session. Your therapist will gently massage the myofascial tissue and look for stiff or tightened areas. Normal myofascial tissue should feel pliable and elastic.

The massage therapist will begin massaging and stretching the areas that feel rigid with light manual pressure. These manipulative therapies aim to release contractions of the muscle that put pressure on the surrounding tissue, thus improving muscle function and reducing pain.

While many therapists offer manipulative myofascial release therapies, certain tools can help release myofascial pressure at home.

Myofascial release is an alternative therapy for people with myofascial pain syndrome. Symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome include:

  • dull, aching muscular pain
  • muscular pain that worsens with movement
  • presence of painful knots in muscles
  • reduced range of mobility in affected areas
  • mood or sleep disturbances

If you suspect you have myofascial pain syndrome, you should see a doctor for assessment. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, a medical professional can help create a treatment plan. Treatment for myofascial pain syndrome may involve:

In conjunction with a doctor-approved treatment plan, people may wish to try myofascial release therapy. While imperial evidence of its efficacy is lacking, anecdotal claims support its use.

Myofascial release by massage therapy has very few risks. However, it may not be suitable for people at an increased risk of injury, such as the elderly.

However, in very rare cases, improper massage techniques can cause:

  • bruising
  • allergic reaction to any oils, gels, or lotions involved
  • fractures
  • nerve damage

Some studies have found encouraging signs for using myofascial release therapy to treat myofascial pain. However, larger investigations are necessary to fully assess its potential as a treatment option, and there is currently no consensus on its efficacy.

Still, because of the relative lack of risk, many patients with chronic or even short-term back pain may be interested in trying it to see if the therapy provides any relief. This is especially true if you’re trying to avoid surgery.

Myofascial release is a form of alternative physical therapy for the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome. The practice involves the physical manipulation of identified ‘trigger points’ to release pain and tension in the muscles and surrounding tissues.

There is a lack of evidence as to the efficacy of the practice, but it is typically well-tolerated and carries little risk of injury or complication.