10 Mar Myofascial release therapy (Graston technique)

Myofascial release (MFR) is a technique used by trained physiotherapists and massage therapists to treat pain originating in the myofascial tissue. Broken down, myo means muscle, while fascia is defined as a “thin casing of connective tissue that surrounds and holds every organ, blood vessel, bone, nerve fiber, and muscle in place” (Johns Hopkins Medicine). Because there are nerves in the fascia, it can be highly sensitive and painful when it’s not functioning as it should.

What causes myofascial damage?

While healthy fascia is smooth and flexible, damaged fascia can become thick and wrinkly. This may be a result of:

• Injury
• Surgery
• Overuse of one part of the body
• Extended periods of very limited mobility

What conditions can MFR treatment help with?

• Neck & back pain
• Sprains and strains
• Hamstring & knee pain
• Golfer’s/Tennis elbow
• Shoulder/hip stiffness
• Trigger finger
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
• General lack of flexibility
• Scar tissue build-up

While this manual therapy technique has very little risk, it won’t be the right choice for you if you have weak or broken bones, deep vein issues, open cuts/sores, or are taking blood thinners.

How to know if it’s fascia, joints, or muscles causing your pain

As always, the first and most important step to achieving an accurate diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan is a thorough assessment. On your first visit, Brittney (who was trained in the Graston Technique) will spend the time needed to determine where your pain is stemming from. Typically, fascia pain improves with movement, which isn’t often the case with muscle and joint pain. Hard, tender spots (or trigger points) also offer a clue that your discomfort is starting in the fascia.

What to expect from treatment

During treatment, Brittney will gently press on the trigger point with the stainless steel tool and slide it back and forth over the skin, breaking up the tissue. Treatment intensity will vary between patients and depends on each individual’s tolerance.

Patients may notice redness or minor bruising following an instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization treatment (aka myofascial release).

What’s Next

If you’ve got additional questions, please feel free to reach out to us at Acceleration Physiotherapy Sherwood Park, or to book your assessment, click here!