What is Fibromyalgia and How Can Myofascial Release Help?

Nov 28

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Firbomygia, by medical definition, is a condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and memory issues. There are many possible contributing factors to fibromyalgia including genetics, illnesses, and emotional or physical trauma. Like many chronic illnesses, there is currently no cure, however, there are effective treatments that can help people manage it successfully, reducing pain and increasing quality of life. MFR is one of those ways that can leave you feeling better and really reduce the impact this condition has on your life!

How does Myofascial Release help?

In terms of the physical effects, Myofascial Release (MFR) gently stretches the fascia that surrounds all of the muscles and organs. The combination of stretch and compression creates a pizoelectric effect in the tissues that goes all the way down to the deepest, cellular level. This causes rehydration of the tissues and releases these tight structures that are surrounding the sore muscles. This creates a reduction in pain and an increase in freedom of movement.

Additionally, in fibromyalgia patients, the nervous system is stuck in the “stress” or “fight or flight” response. This response usually turns on and off when we are stressed or our body thinks we are in danger, but in fibro patients, it doesn’t turn off. This in turn keeps muscles tense and sore, causes inflammation, impairs digestion (IBS is a common comorbidity), decreases energy production, and disrupts sleep. MFR treatments help bring the nervous system back in balance by inhibiting the “fight or flight” part of the nervous system and activating the rest, digest, and repair system. This helps set the stage for healing, helping the brain and body re-regulate, and leaves you feeling calm and centered.

MFR treatments are supplemented with self-release techniques that you can do at home to maintain your results and keep you feeling great!

The research is also supporting MFR as an effective treatment for reducing pain related to fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that after a series of MFR treatments there was long lasting pain-relief one month and 6 months after their sessions (Castro-Sanchez, 2011).

Clinically, we see our fibromyalgia patients being able to fully participate in their lives again, enjoying time with family and friends and doing the activities they enjoy. It is extremely freeing and empowering for our patients to have tools that keep them feeling well and in control of their symptoms!