Myofascial release therapy: methods and costs

Fascia is a net-like connective tissue that runs through the human body and encloses muscles, organs and bones. Lack of exercise or overexertion can cause painful adhesion in the fascia tissue. This is where myofascial release therapy comes in. It promotes blood circulation in the tissue, improves mobility and helps to relieve pain. Myofascial release therapy encompasses various treatment methods. Most myofascial treatments involve manual treatment, where therapists use precise hand techniques. Myofascial massage, for example, loosens hardened tissue structures with targeted pressure. Special equipment is sometimes used to supplement myofascial treatment.

Myofascial release therapy is used for various physical problems and supports the natural regeneration of connective tissue. Frequent areas of application for myofascial release therapy include:

• Chronic pain: myofascial treatments on the back, shoulders and thighs often help alleviate complaints through targeted activation.
• Mobility restrictions: myofascial treatment often helps to improve joint mobility.
• Sports injuries: under certain circumstances, myofascial massage can speed up the healing process and prevent subsequent complaints.
• Scar treatment: in many cases, targeted techniques help to loosen disruptive adhesions in the tissue.
• Treatment after operations: myofascial release therapy may support wound healing and prevent adhesions.

Myofascial release therapy follows a holistic treatment concept. This includes targeting, manipulating and activating the joints, muscles and connective tissues in order to stimulate the body’s own healing powers. There are specialised methods within manual myofascial release therapy, each with its own techniques to activate fascia tissue. This variety of methods makes it possible to treat different complaints effectively. An important part of myofascial release therapy is a manual examination. This helps therapists identify the causes of pain – particularly back, joint or muscle pain.

Boeger-style myofascial release therapy 

Boeger-style myofascial release therapy treats scars and inflammatory adhesions in the fascia system. Therapists use specific tests to identify mobility restrictions in joints, hips, shoulders and the spine. To loosen the adhesions in the connective tissue, they use a special lifting technique – a targeted manual technique on the affected tissue. Boeger therapy focuses on treating the causes of pain and restricted mobility. It is suitable for scars of all ages and sizes.

Typaldos-style myofascial release therapy

Typaldos-style myofascial release therapy is based on the Fascial Distortion Model (FDM). Therapists use the patient’s body language and responses to pain to pinpoint fascial distortions. They correct these by applying targeted pressure to specific points as well as traction (pulling) or compression (pressing) in the area of the joints. FDM myofascial release therapy is particularly suitable for acute sports injuries, joint complaints and restricted mobility.

Rolfing-style myofascial release therapy

The Rolfing method is often effective for those with chronic posture problems, restricted mobility and structural deformities. Therapists work systematically on the entire fascia system using specific hand techniques. Unlike traditional massage, Rolfing-style myofascial release therapy penetrates the deep layers of the connective tissue. It follows a predetermined sequence, with each session having a different focus. This structured approach and the realignment of the body under gravity set the Rolfing method apart from other manual myofascial release therapies. In complementary medicine, Rolfing is not regarded as myofascial release therapy, but as a method in its own right.

Myofascial treatments incorporate elements from medical disciplines such as osteopathy, physiotherapy and chiropractic. The manual treatment of fascia has been constantly evolving since the 19th century and is a recognised method of complementary medicine, where therapists combine traditional healing methods with modern scientific findings. 

Myofascial massage is an established treatment method. Nevertheless, as with any form of therapy, side effects may occur in some cases. In particular, some people find the targeted treatment of hardened tissue painful. It is therefore common for the pain to worsen initially after myofascial treatment. How severe the side effects are and how long they last depend on the treatment and the condition of the connective tissue. Other possible reactions after myofascial treatment include:

• Temporary worsening of pain in the treated area
• Short-term impairment of mobility
• Slight swelling, redness or bruising
• Headache or slight dizziness
• Mild nausea or circulatory problems during or after treatment
• Increased sensitivity in the treated areas of the body
• Tiredness and increased need for sleep
• Increased blood circulation and associated sensation of warmth

Talk to your doctor about possible risks before starting myofascial release therapy. If you experience acute pain after myofascial treatment, it is best to speak to a medical professional immediately. Fascia rollers, massage balls or special massage devices allow you to perform myofascial release therapy on yourself. Seek guidance from qualified therapists first, before carrying out your fascia training yourself. With the right instructions and regularly applied, myofascial release therapy is effective and long lasting.