Before I go into how the treatment works we need to establish what fascia actually is?
What is Fascia?
Fascia is the soft tissue that surrounds and connects all of the structures in the body. In the normal healthy state the Myofascia is relaxed and soft. It has the ability to stretch and move without restriction. When you experience physical trauma or inflammation the Myofascia loses is pliability. It can become tight, restricted and a source of tension throughout the rest of the body. Trauma, such an injury or kick, surgery or habitual poor posture has a cumulative effect over time. In a healthy body Myofascia helps to maintain good posture, range of motion and flexibility. It also gives our bodies tremendous strength and helps us deal with excessive stress and injuries.
An example of Myofascia would be when you remove the skin from a chicken breast, that white filmy tissue underneath the skin is Myofascia and in a living state is very strong.
Myo-fascial Release
The benefits of MFR include;
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Reduction in muscle spasms
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Improved joint movement
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Decreased muscle and fascia tension
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Improved breathing
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Reduction in chronic recurring injuries.
How does Myo-facsial Release work?
Myofascial Release [MFR] is a very effective hands on technique which involves applying gentle but steady manipulation to the fascia connective tissue in the body. The purpose of MFR is to break down any scar tissue, relax the muscle and myofascia and restore good posture. Myofascial Release techniques focus on relaxing the deep tissue of the body providing lasting and effective relief to the horse.
During a MFR session, a gentle stretch is put into the connective tissue for a period of approximately 3 minutes to allow the tissue to rehydrate and release. This is a very relaxing and effective therapy, facilitating the body's innate healing mechanisms to realign bony structures and release deep seated tension and trauma.
This technique provides an effective addition or alternative to massage for the more sensitive animals, and sometimes proves to be better than other physical therapies at releasing stubborn areas of tightness, allowing joints to realign.