Myofascial Release Massage Therapy (MFR)
Myofascial Release Massage Therapy (MFR) is a targeted treatment that focuses on the fascia (connective tissue) to release pressure and tension, reduce inflammation, and restore mobility. Throughout the body, the fascia surrounds and protects all structures within the musculoskeletal system—interconnecting bones, muscles, tendons, nerves, internal organs, and blood vessels. Injury in one area of the fascia can cause pain in another region. Disease, injury, trauma, and inactivity can restrict the fascia, leading to pressure, pain, postural misalignment, reduced blood flow, and limited range of motion.
At Nk Body Philosophy, licensed massage therapists (LMTs) employ specific MFR techniques, such as applying constant, direct pressure to the fascia until a release occurs. Additionally, using their palms, knuckles, elbows, or other tools, the LMTs gradually stretch and elongate the restricted fascia. MFR is clinically driven and especially beneficial to individuals with chronic pain conditions or musculoskeletal system injuries.
MFR sessions may also incorporate other therapies to achieve the most effective results, advancing the recovery process and helping clients function at their best. To read more about our LMTs providing MFR, please visit their About pages: Nicole Kung and Victor D. Cabral.
Providing Myofascial Release Massage Therapy, licensed massage therapists effectively help clients:
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Relieve pressure, tension, and compression
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Improve pain and inflammation from chronic pain conditions
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Treat and prevent injuries or overuse conditions
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Restore flexibility, mobility, range of motion, muscle movement, posture, and alignment
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Stimulate blood circulation and drain the lymphatic system to assist in eliminating toxins and impurities
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Enhance the body’s natural healing and immunity
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Assist with fatigue symptoms and sleep quality
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Release endorphins to improve stress, anxiety, and depression
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Reduce stress levels to decrease Cortisol and calm the nervous system
MFR is recommended for the following conditions:
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Acute & Chronic Pain Conditions
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Alignment & Posture Issues
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Back Pain
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Carpal Tunnel
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Inflammation
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Injury Recovery & Prevention
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Migraine
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Mobility & Range of Motion Issues
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Muscular & Joint Pain
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Neck Pain
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Neuropathy
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Overuse Conditions
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Pressure & Tension
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Scar Tissue
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Sciatica
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Tendonitis
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TMJ
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Trigger Points
MFR Additional Therapies
Considering a client’s unique needs, MFR sessions may include these additional therapies:
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joints on each side of the face that connect the jaw to the side of the skull. These joints work in conjunction with facial bones and five pairs of muscles. Together, they allow for the forward, backward, and side-to-side movements of the lower jaw, and the opening and closing of the mouth. TMJ dysfunction occurs when these joints and muscles stop working together harmoniously, causing muscle spasms, pain, tenderness, tissue damage, and stiffness in the jaw, face, and neck. Our LMTs’ approach to TMJ myofascial massage therapy includes tissue release in the surrounding areas, gentle massage on the joint (external or intra-oral), and self-care tools to practice at home. *Service provided by Nicole Kung and Victor D. Cabral
What To Expect During MFR Sessions
An initial MFR session begins with a detailed intake of medical history and an assessment of a client’s movement, posture, symptoms, and breathing patterns to determine a personalized plan. The actual treatment, using various MFR techniques and additional therapies as needed, occurs on a massage table. Following a session, the LMT provides various recommendations for clients to integrate into daily living. For example, clients may receive stretches and exercises, posture and alignment suggestions, self-care practices, and ergonomic adjustments to office and home equipment.