The myofascial release procedure is a form of soft tissue therapy used to treat somatic dysfunction and
resulting pain and restriction of motion. It is a treatment which uses continual palpatory feedback to achieve
release of myofascial tissues.This is said to be accomplished by relaxing contracted muscles,
increasing circulation and lymphatic drainage, and stimulating the stretch reflex of muscles and overlying fascia.
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Fascia is the soft tissue component of the connective tissue that provides support and protection for most
structures within the human body, including muscle. Osteopathic theory proposes that this soft tissue can become
restricted due to psychogenic disease, overuse, trauma, infectious agents, or inactivity, often resulting in pain,
muscle tension, and corresponding diminished blood flow. Although fascia and its corresponding muscle are the
main targets of myofascial release, other tissue may be addressed as well, including other connective tissue.
The direct myofascial release (or deep tissue work) method engages the myofascial tissue "restrictive barrier"
(tension). The tissue is loaded with a constant force until release occurs.Practitioners use knuckles, elbows,
or other tools to slowly stretch the restricted fascia by applying force. Direct myofascial release is an
attempt to bring about changes in the myofascial structures by stretching or elongation of fascia,
or mobilizing adhesive tissues. The practitioner moves slowly through the layers of the fascia until
the deep tissues are reached.