Myofasical Release TherapyWhat is Myofasical Release Therapy?

“Myo” means muscle, and “fascia” is a strong connective tissue enveloping, separating, or binding together muscles, organs, and other soft structures of the body.  It forms a whole-body continuous three-dimensional matrix of structural support. Fascia interpenetrates and surrounds all organs, muscles, bones and nerve fibers, creating a unique environment for body systems functioning.

Extensive studies have been performed on fascia and there is increasing interest in its therapeutic communities in the role that fascia plays in musculoskeletal strain disorders ie. (low-back instability and postural strain patterns of all types, fibromyalgia, etc.)

Dr. Funk and her staff uses myofascial release to help patients in many ways.

  • increase postural alignment
  • decrease pain and soreness
  • decrease muscle tightness
  • increase flexibility and strength
  • improve joint function and stability

Myofascial pain can have two sources. Pain can be generated from the skeletal muscle or connective tissues that are ‘bound down’ by tight fascia. In addition, pain can also be generated from damaged myofascial tissue itself, sometimes at a ‘trigger point’ where a contraction of muscle fibers has occurred. In either case, the restriction or contraction inhibits blood flow to the affected structures, thus accentuating the contraction process further unless the area is treated.

The goal of myofascial therapy is to stretch and loosen the fascia so that it and other contiguous structures can move more freely therefore restore normal motion and flexiblilty. For this reason, myofascial therapy is sometimes referred to as ‘myofascial release’ therapy. It may also be referred to as myofascial trigger point therapy by others.

Rave Review: I began looking for a Chiropractor a few months ago as my neck and upper back began giving me fits sitting in front of a computer day in and day out. I’d walk into work and try hard to sit up straight, but by the end of the day was a hunchbacking mess. Dr. Funk and her assistant Jonathon immediately provided relief for the pain I was experiencing and recommended various techniques for how to avoid building the stress in the problem areas of my back and neck. All of her efforts were high-quality, tailored to my specific needs, and as I visited the office during lunch hours, she was very respectful of my time. My only regret was that my insurance provided reimbursement for up to 8 visits.‎  -Scott H (written on October 1, 2009)