When persistent aches, tightness, or restricted range of motion start interfering with daily movement, many patients search for safe, effective therapies beyond standard massage or stretching. Myofascial release therapy is one such approach, often used in chiropractic and manual therapy settings, that targets the connective tissue (fascia) surrounding muscles and structures. At Gilroy Family Chiropractic, we integrate myofascial release into tailored care plans—helping patients alleviate discomfort, restore flexibility, and move more freely.
In this article, we explain what myofascial release is, its benefits, how treatment typically works, precautions, and how it fits into a broader chiropractic care strategy.
What Is Myofascial Release Therapy?
- The term “myofascial” refers to both muscle (“myo”) and the fascia — the thin, strong connective tissue that envelops muscles, organs, nerves, and bones.
- Over time, injury, repetitive strain, inflammation, or trauma can cause fascia to lose elasticity, become restricted, or develop adhesions (knots or painful zones).
- Myofascial release is a hands-on technique in which a clinician applies sustained pressure or stretch to these restricted regions in the fascia, helping to loosen the tissue, improve glide, and reduce tension.
- The goal is not simply to manipulate muscle, but to target the broader fascial network — which may mean working in areas somewhat distant from the pain you feel.
It’s worth noting that while many therapists and patients report positive outcomes, the research is still evolving on how and when myofascial release is most effective.
Benefits of Myofascial Release: What To Expect
When applied correctly and in appropriate cases, myofascial release therapy may offer several benefits:
- Pain Reduction & Relief
By releasing tension in restricted fascial tissues and “trigger points,” many patients experience reduced pain or discomfort. - Improved Range of Motion & Flexibility
Loosening fascial restrictions can allow joints and muscles to move more freely, enhancing mobility. - Better Circulation & Tissue Recovery
Fascia that moves more freely helps support blood flow and the transport of nutrients, aiding in healing and tissue health. - Relaxation & Stress Relief
The therapy can reduce muscular tension and promote a sense of calm, lowering stress or protective muscle guarding. - Support for Chronic Conditions
Some studies show benefits in managing conditions like chronic low back pain, fibromyalgia, or connective tissue dysfunction—especially when used in conjunction with other therapies.
Of course, individual results vary based on severity, chronicity, and other health factors.
What Happens During a Myofascial Release Session?
Here’s a generalized breakdown of how a session might proceed at Gilroy Family Chiropractic or a manual therapy clinic:
- Initial Assessment & Palpation
The practitioner examines your posture, movement, and identifies regions of fascial tightness or sensitivity. They “palpate” (feel) the fascia for rigid areas or trigger points. - Targeted Release Application
The therapist applies gentle, sustained pressure or slow stretch to restricted areas. This may continue until “release” is felt (tissues soften, shift, or relax). - Stretching, Movement & Integration
After the release, guided movement or stretching is often applied to help integrate the newly freed fascial mobility. The body is encouraged to re-balance. - Multiple Sessions Over Time
One session may not fully resolve deeper restrictions. Many practitioners schedule repeat sessions over days or weeks, depending on severity and response. - Home Care & Self-Techniques
Therapists may provide self-release exercises (foam rollers, balls, gentle pressure) to sustain improvements between visits.
After a session, some soreness or mild discomfort is common, but significant pain or swelling should be reported promptly.
When (and When Not) to Use Myofascial Release
Ideal Candidates & Use Cases
Myofascial release is often considered when:
- Muscle tightness, stiffness, or “knots” don’t improve with regular stretching or massage
- Movement or flexibility is restricted
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain is present (e.g. low back pain, neck pain)
- Scar tissue, postural imbalances, or injuries have affected fascial layers
- You want a hands-on, non-drug, non-invasive intervention to support function
Precautions & Contraindications
While generally low risk, there are cases where myofascial release might need adjustments or be avoided:
- Open wounds, fractures, or acute injuries
- Blood clotting disorders or those on blood thinners
- Severe osteoporosis or fragile bones
- Active infection or inflammation in the area
- Deep vein thrombosis or uncontrolled systemic conditions
Always inform your practitioner of health history, medications, and any areas of concern.
How Gilroy Family Chiropractic Integrates Myofascial Release into Your Care
At Gilroy Family Chiropractic, we believe that optimal health and movement come from treating the whole body. Here’s how myofascial release fits into our approach:
- Personalized Assessment: We begin with a thorough exam—identifying not only where you hurt, but how fascial restrictions may affect your overall alignment and function.
- Blended Care Plans: Myofascial release is often combined with chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic exercises, spinal mobilization, and soft tissue work to maximize results.
- Education & Empowerment: We teach home techniques and simple tools (foam roller, soft ball) you can use to maintain progress.
- Ongoing Monitoring & Progress: We track your mobility, pain, and function over time, adjusting interventions as your body responds.
- Safe, Comfortable Environment: Our clinic prioritizes patient comfort, pacing, and communication—so you never feel pressured or overstressed.
You might start seeing improvements after a few treatments, but deeper or long-standing restrictions often require a full course of care.
Simple Self-Release Techniques You Can Try (With Caution)
Use these only as adjuncts, not replacements, to guided care. Stop if sharp or radiating pain occurs.
- Foam Roller / Soft Roller: Roll slowly along tight muscle groups (e.g. calves, quads, IT band), pausing on sensitive spots for 15–30 seconds.
- Tennis or Lacrosse Ball Pressure: Use a wall or floor to press a ball into restricted muscle/fascial areas (e.g. shoulder blade, glute), holding steady pressure until tension releases.
- Gentle Stretching After Release: Once you feel some softening, gently move or stretch the area to help integrate the change.
These methods can help between clinic visits, but they require patience and consistency.
Summary & Next Steps
Myofascial release therapy is a powerful tool in the hands of skilled practitioners—capable of reducing pain, improving range of motion, and supporting long-term mobility. While not a cure-all, it’s often a highly effective complement to chiropractic adjustments, exercise, and holistic care.
At Gilroy Family Chiropractic, our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and get back to the activities you love. If you’re experiencing chronic tightness, stiffness, or nagging musculoskeletal pain, we invite you to schedule a consultation. Let us assess whether myofascial release (alongside other therapies) is the right path for your healing journey.