Why is myofascial release so effective?

 

A restriction in the fascia can cause discomfort and limited movement, sometimes in places distant from the root cause.  For example, restrictions in the shoulder can pull on and cause pain in the wrist.  Your therapist will release restriction in a whole region, not just one area in isolation.  To address pain in the wrist and hand, for example, a therapist may work from the neck to the tips of the fingers.

 

With restrictions released in the fascia, not only is temporary tightness relieved, but long-held patterns of tension can be reversed.  This allows muscles to stay lengthened and perform in balance with each other, helping to break habits such as poor posture and protective "muscle guarding."  Because of this, people often notice that their pain relief, improved movement and other effects are long-lasting.