Myofascial release
Myofascial release is not like a standard massage. It does not involve oil or wax and can be done through a layer of clothing. There are various different techniques used depending on the affected area and how the client is feeling. Some techniques can feel temporarily uncomfortable as the fascia is released and separated. It can feel burny, itchy, stingy and prickly. However these sensations pass quickly and the benefits can be felt as soon as the area is released.
Many people find myofascial release deeply relaxing and satisfying, often people say it feels like a deep itch is being scratched or that although it might feel uncomfortable at times, it is a grateful pain and the body wants it. We spend time slowly sinking into the body and often work under the body’s reflexive radar so we access deep in the body without it contracting against the pressure. It is an interactive session where feedback from the individual helps to guide the session and the level and depth of release, ensuring the client feels safe and listened to. Clients feel involved and empowered in the process which helps the body move towards a healthier place with greater ease.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger points are areas in the muscles that the brain thinks need to be permanently contracted. This makes the muscle shorter than it would normally be and creates a strain in the body. When trigger points are activated, by a fall, poor posture or overuse, or by stress experienced within our own body or through the environment we feel discomfort or pain. This can be felt specifically as a sharp concentrated pain or more diffuse numbness, throbbing, dull aches similar to fascial pain. The problem can be felt at the specific site of pain or may be referred pain from another area in the body. Trigger points will also impact on our ability to move freely without a sense of pulling or pain with they can refer pain to other areas in the body. If these trigger points are not released then trying to strengthen or stretch muscles has little effect on pain reduction.
Trigger points can be deactivated during a myofascial release treatment or when using oil within a massage treatment. The trigger points are palpated by the practitioner and also with the guidance of the client. Sometimes the client can often clearly identify when a trigger point is being stimulated through touch and can feel the pain being referred to the problem areas in the body. At other times only pressure in an area or relief may be experienced as the trigger points are being addressed. During a treatment the primary trigger points are located and deactivate using pressure and stretch and then the surrounding muscles and fascia is “swept” for remaining trigger points. Once trigger points have been released then the area is stretched to allow the muscle and surrounding tissues to readjust and properly accommodate the changes.
It may take several sessions release the trigger points causing the discomfort or lack of range of movement depending on where the trigger poiints are located and how much the area is continued to be under stress after the treatments. Usually the client can feel the benefits shortly after treatments by noticing a change in either the intensity of the pain; the frequency of the pain; a quicker recovery from the pain; an increased range of movement or the ability to do more before any pain or discomfort arises.
