|
Other common
name(s): none
Scientific/medical
name(s): none
Description
Myofascial release is a bodywork technique that focuses on the
body's fascia, a connective tissue system that weaves through the
entire body. Practitioners use manual massage techniques with the goal
of relieving pain and increasing range of motion.
Overview
There is little scientific evidence available to support
proponents' claims that myofascial release relieves pain or restores
flexibility. A small preliminary study found that it seemed to help
chronic pain related to prostatitis, but additional research is needed.
How is it promoted for use?
Myofascial release is promoted to restore flexibility and
relieve pain. According to practitioners of myofascial release, poor
posture, injury, illness, or stress can negatively affect the body's
alignment and cause fascia to become restricted. They believe that this
can cause pain and impair movement. A gentle form of stretching and
manual compression is said to restore flexibility to this connective
tissue and provide relief from fascial restrictions and pain.
What does it involve?
Fascia is a connective tissue system that weaves through the
entire body. Sheets of this fibrous material surround muscles, joints,
nerves, blood vessels, and organs. Fascia is flexible but has limited
stretch, and provides support and protection for softer tissues. There
are two main schools of mysfascial release: the direct and indirect
method, depending on whether the fascia is manipulated directly or
indirectly. Generally speaking, myofascial release consists of a gentle
form of stretching and manual compression. It is said to restore
flexibility to this connective tissue and provide relief from fascial
restrictions and pain. Myofascial release is often practiced by
physical therapists but may also be offered by osteopathic physicians,
chiropractors, massage therapists, and others who are trained in this
method (see our documents, Massage
and Bodywork).
What is the history behind it?
Massage has been used in many ancient cultures, including
those of China, India, Persia, Arabia, Greece, and Egypt. Chinese texts
dating back to 2700 BC recommended massage and other types of body
movements as treatments for paralysis, chills, and fever. Hippocrates,
known as the father of western medicine, recommended massage for sports
and war injuries.
The term myofascial was used by Janet Travell, M.D. in the
1940s, and the term was used throughout the 1970s and 1980s as part of
her trigger point therapy, a massage technique focusing on trigger
points, or points of extreme tension in the body. There are now two
main schools of mysfascial release: the direct and indirect method.
What is the evidence?
There is little scientific evidence available to support
proponents' claims that myofascial release relieves pain or restores
flexibility. One study has found that myofascial release, when combined
with electrical current, improved pain and neck flexibility in people
with neck and shoulder pain. A small preliminary study that looked at
the use of myofascial release with relaxation therapy found that it
seemed to help men with chronic pelvic pain related to prostatitis, but
additional research is needed to confirm its effect.
Are there any possible problems or
complications?
People with rheumatoid arthritis, cancer that has spread to
the bone, spine injuries, osteoporosis, or other bone diseases that
could be worsened by physical manipulation should avoid physical
manipulation or deep pressure. Manipulation of a bone in an area of
cancer metastasis could result in a bone fracture. Also, people who
have had radiation may find even light touch on the treatment area to
be uncomfortable. People with cancer and chronic conditions such as
arthritis and heart disease should consult their physicians before
undergoing any type of therapy that involves manipulation of joints and
muscles. It is important that massage be given by trained massage
therapists and that the massage therapist know about your cancer and
its treatment. Generally, gentle massage and bodywork can be adapted to
meet the needs of cancer patients.
People who have had radiation may find even light touch on the
treatment area to be uncomfortable. A few people have allergic
reactions to lotions or oils used during massage, and this may be more
common among patients receiving radiation treatment.
Another concern for people who have cancer is that tissue
manipulation in the area of a tumor might increase the risk that cancer
cells will travel to other parts of the body. It may be prudent for
cancer patients to avoid massage near tumors and lumps that could be
cancerous until this question is clearly answered.
Patients with low blood platelet counts (a common side effect
of chemotherapy) or who are taking blood-thinning medication such as
warfarin (Coumadin) may be susceptible to easy bruising and should ask
their doctor whether massage is safe for them.
It is important for people who have cancer to let their
medical care provider know they are receiving any type of massage or
bodywork. Massage should be provided by a trained professional with
expertise in working safely with people with cancer and with cancer
survivors.
Myofascial release is often practiced by physical therapists
but may also be offered by osteopathic physicians, chiropractors,
massage therapists, and others who are trained in this method (see our
documents, Massage
and Bodywork).
Relying on this treatment alone and delaying or avoiding
conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health
consequences.
Additional Resources
More information from your American Cancer
Society
The following information on complementary and alternative
therapies may also be helpful to you. These materials may be found on
our Web site (www.cancer.org)
or ordered from our toll-free number (1-800-ACS-2345).
References
Anderson RU, Wise D, Sawyer T, Chan C. Integration of
myofascial trigger point release and paradoxical relaxation training
treatment of chronic pelvic pain in men. J Urol.
2005;174:155-160.
Hou CR, Tsai LC, Cheng KF, Chung KC, Hong CZ. Immediate
effects of various physical therapeutic modalities on cervical
myofascial pain and trigger-point sensitivity. Arch Phys Med Rehabil.
2002;83:1406-1414.
Manheim C. What is myofascial release? Myofascial Release Web
site. Accessed at http://www.myofascial-release.com on June 2, 2008.
Manipulation & body-based methods: massage &
related bodywork. Complementary/Integrative Medicine Education
Resources, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Web
site. Accessed at
http://www.mdanderson.org/departments/CIMER/display.cfm?id=254B81AA-6D52-42D3-94DDF74AC23EFEC4&method=displayFullon
June 20, 2008.
Note: This information may not cover
all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or
interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be
relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is
familiar with your medical situation.
Last Medical Review: 11/01/2008
Last Revised: 11/01/2008
|
