Myofascial release (MFR) is often described as a technique that stretches or “releases” fascia to improve movement and relieve pain. However, the reality is more complex—and more fascinating. As someone highly trained in MFR and with experience assisting one of Canada’s top instructors, I want to shed light on what’s actually happening when you receive this treatment.
The Strength of Fascia: A Built-In Safeguard
Fascia is an incredibly strong connective tissue that weaves throughout your body, encasing muscles, bones, and organs. It’s often compared to a spiderweb or a thin sheet of fabric, but in reality, fascia is built to withstand enormous amounts of force. Without its resilience, we would suffer injuries from even the simplest movements.
Because fascia is so strong, the idea that a therapist can physically stretch or reshape it with their hands is misleading. Research shows that changing fascia structurally would require forces far beyond what a therapist—or even a bodyweight load—can apply. This means that traditional explanations of MFR, which claim to "release" fascia, are not supported by scientific evidence.
The Nervous System: The True Key to Change
When people receive MFR and feel relief, it’s not because their fascia has been “released.” Instead, the nervous system plays the primary role. The techniques used in MFR—slow, sustained pressure and gentle movement—communicate with the nervous system, reducing tension, increasing body awareness, and improving pain perception. Essentially, the nervous system learns to interpret sensations differently, which can create a sense of ease, improved mobility, and less discomfort.
This aligns with what we know about pain science: pain is not simply about tissue damage but also about how the brain interprets signals from the body. MFR helps recalibrate this system, making it a powerful tool for pain management and movement restoration.
For more on how the nervous system influences pain, check out our article on Understanding the Role of a Registered Massage Therapist.
Why Myofascial Release May Not Work for Chronic Pain
While MFR can be effective for acute pain or temporary relief, it does not always provide long-term solutions for chronic pain. Chronic pain arises from diffrent sources. Even if we are to say it is associated with fibrous adhesions—dense, glue-like restrictions within muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. These adhesions cannot be broken down by simple pressure or compression; they require a tension-based force to be effectively treated.
Many chronic pain patients seek MFR but find that their pain relief is short-lived. This is because the underlying issue—changes to how nerves, your spinal cord, or your brain react to signals from your body—remains untreated. Without addressing these deeper problems, MFR alone is unlikely to provide lasting relief for those suffering from long-term pain.
If you're dealing with ongoing pain, read Addressing Specific Health Concerns to explore other treatment options that provide more sustainable relief.
Why This Matters for You
Understanding how MFR truly works allows us to approach treatment with realistic expectations. Rather than trying to "melt" or "break up" fascia (which isn’t happening), skilled practitioners focus on guiding the nervous system toward a state of relaxation and adaptability. This means:
You don’t need intense pressure or painful treatments to get results.
The effects of MFR are more about neurological change than mechanical change.
Chronic pain may require a different approach, such as addressing adhesion through tension-based therapies.
Combining MFR with movement, education, and self-care strategies enhances long-term benefits.
Experience a Science-Based Approach to Pain Relief in Kamloops
At Well+Able Integrated Health, we use hands-on techniques that engage the nervous system to help you move better, feel better, and regain control over your pain. Instead of focusing on changing fascia, we use a broader approach that addresses deeper influences on pain, movement, and recovery. Whether you're an athlete, a busy mom, or dealing with long-term pain, we offer personalized treatment plans designed for long-lasting results.
If you're curious about how our approach can help you, book a session today and experience the difference for yourself.
For more insights into massage therapy and pain management, explore our blog.