Myofascial Release
What
is it?
Myofascial release is a specialised physiotherapy treatment. It can help
to relieve back, neck, muscle and joint pain and stiffness.
The word myofascia comes from Latin; ‘Myo’ means muscle, and fascia
means band. It is the connective tissue that holds our bodies together.
As it forms a continuous 3D web, any problems with one part of our body
can affect any other part. So scar tissue, injuries, stress or poor posture, may
have long lasting effects.
The
connective tissue tightens up, which in turn causes tightness in other parts of
the body. It also makes you more prone to injuries. Symptoms such as pain,
stiffness, headaches, migraines, tingling and numbness may be due to this.
Treatment
After assessment to determine what the problems are, treatment involves
stretching and releasing the tight connective tissue. This is a slow, gentle
technique which can feel very relaxing.
The
number of sessions depends on the problem and how long it has been present. Many
people feel some relief very quickly, but most problems require a course of
treatment to be fully resolved.
Trigger Point
Release
Trigger points are very specific areas of pain, which cause
referral of pain or sensation when they are pressed. Their release can improve
pain and stiffness.
Electrotherapy
equipment
 | Painban - uses pulsed electromagnetic waves to stimulate cells.
This helps reduce swelling, eliminate pain and promote healing. |
 | Interferential - reduces pain by using medium frequency stimulation
via electrodes placed on the skin, around the area of pain. |
 | TENS - Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation uses a small
battery operated unit to control pain. it works via skin electrodes,
transmitting mild electrical impulses that block the feeling of pain. |
 | Acustim - this machine accurately locates and electrically
stimulates acupuncture points, without the need for needles. |
 | EMG biofeedback - Electromyographic biofeedback device which can
accurately measure muscle activity, and assists the patient to use muscles
correctly. |
 | Circulation booster - stimulates reflex points on the feet. It
improves circulation to the legs, helping to relieve varicose veins and
swelling. |