Myofascial Release Therapy in Holborn & Grove Park
Myofascial Release in London
Are you looking for a myofascial release therapist in London? Don’t look further than Acubody.
At Acubody, we specialise in myofascial release and acupuncture, and our myofascial release therapist Duncan has degree level training (Graduate Diploma) and over 20 years clinical experience working with patients pain, dysfunction and postural issues.
Myofascial release is considered a neuromuscular technique since research is showing how its effects are due to nervous system reflexes.
What is the Fascia?
The fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds and is integral to the musculoskeletal system. The ‘myo’ in myofascial means muscle. The fascia is loaded with specialised mechanoreceptors- that monitor pressure, stretch and movement- and we now know that the fascial system is not just something that binds us together, but a living active part of movement coordination.
Effects like softening of the muscles, mobilising and freeing up of the connective tissue are a reaction from the stimulation of these specialised receptors in the fascia.
How Does The Fascia Affect You?
The fascia can thicken, become stiff or its planes can get stuck together due to injury, repetitive strain or postural habits. This then restricts movement, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
Since the fascia is also structural, over time this can contribute to postural and biomechanical imbalances which affect sitting, standing and walking gait. When we have restrictions like this which affect our movement this can cause other problems related to overloaded joints or tissues, like tendinopathy, bursitis or in the long term arthritis. Therefore it is a good idea to improve mobility and structural balance early to prevent such problems.
A lot of practitioners claiming to practice myofascial therapy have attended only a short course and are not delivering the real thing. For example in order to proper grip and load the fascia you cannot use oil, so if someone claiming they are doing myofascial therapy uses oil, its incorrect, that’s a deep tissue massage
How Does Myofascial Release Help You?
It is a useful therapy for dealing with all sorts of restriction in the muscles and tissues, it has an amazing capacity for relieving muscle pain, and can help restore postural imbalances.
Myofascial release therapy involves pressure on the body tissues in a specific direction, slowly building up to a point of resistance. The pressure is then maintained and the tissue allowed to relax, effectively releasing tension in the muscle unit.
It is currently thought that the directional pressure applied induces the peripheral nervous system to release the muscle. It can be effective in any problem featuring tight muscle tissue, and is very effective in relieving myofascial (i.e. muscular) pain.
In addition to this as it can change the structure of the posture by freeing up movement, myofascial release creates a space that the body can move into and reclaim. This means the positive effects of treatment are usually more profound and longer lasting than massage therapy.
Active Myofascial Release
Duncan, the myofascial release therapist in London often uses active participation of the clients. While performing the technique movements are cued to facilitate mobility in order that you become more aware of your body and ways of moving.
The movement is initially guided, but clients often instinctively find movements which feel good and are encouraged to use them.
Movement also helps the release of the tight tissues by encouraging blood flow and stimulating those special receptors and introducing new movement patterns. This crosses over into what are called active release techniques.
Where Does Myofascial Release Come From?
Myofascial release techniques have grown and developed from the work of Ida Rolf in the 1920’s who called her therapy structural integration, but which was labelled Rolfing after her. There are a number of styles and schools of this work: Rolfing, Hellerwork, KMI- Anatomy Trains.
There is also a separate style of myofascial created by an American called John Barnes which is applied more gently and slowly.
Duncan was trained by a Hellerworker in the structural integration style, but with additional training in other neuromuscular bodywork systems. You can talk to our myofascial release therapist in Holborn & Grove Park during consultation, or contact us to ask any questions to understand the techniques further.
Additional benefits offered by myofascial release
Muscle relief is not the sole benefit of myofascial release. Our myofascial release therapist is very experienced, and through the implementation of different techniques, you can also enjoy the following benefits:
- The therapy improves the range of motion by releasing restrictions in the fascia. Myofascial therapy enhances the motion in your joints and ensures you enjoy pain-free, more efficient movement.
- Duncan will closely work with you to balance muscle tension and enhance movement patterns, coordination and flexibility so you can enjoy improved athletic performance.
- The therapy triggers a relaxation response that helps in reducing anxiety and stress and boosts one’s overall well-being. Some people report a helpful effect processing past stress or trauma.
- By reducing muscle tension and ensuring a calm state of mind, myofascial release can often contribute to improved sleep quality.
- Injury is prevented because this therapy addresses the imbalances in the muscle system, enhances flexibility and, along with movement training, improves motor patterns.
Acubody’s approach to myofascial release
At Acubody, we are experienced and highly trained therapists. We offer tailor-made treatment plans to address specific needs and meet specific goals. If required, our therapists combine this therapy with other techniques like exercises and acupuncture. We guarantee a holistic approach to ensure your well-being is boosted. Our treatment starts with a consultation to analyse your specific requirements and health issues.
Are you considering myofascial release in London?
If you are experiencing limitations in your movement, stiffness or muscle pain, myofascial release therapy will be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. Come to Acubody to experience myofascial release in London. We will assess your specific needs and personalise the treatment to help you achieve the best results.
