Within our body lies an extensive layer of connective tissue called fascia. It helps provide support to nearly everything in our body, including muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, organs, and nerves.
Because it encases nearly every structure in your body, fascia is crucial in facilitating movement. When it is in a healthy state, fascia helps facilitate unrestricted movement. It allows your muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, organs and nerves to slide against each other without friction.
Prolonged states of inflammation and trauma can negatively impact how well your fascia glides. When there are restrictions within this connective tissue layer, i.e. through excessive scar formation or physical trauma, it can constrict the various tissues it encases. As a result, pain and decreased movement may arise.
Myofascial release is a hands-on technique that helps promote and restore healthy movement to fascia. When properly administered, it can help alleviate tightness and decrease pain to the affected area.