Myofascial Release – Massage Techniques
Technique
- Myofasical Release
Definition
- Therapeutic stretching and loosening of tight fascial layers surrounding muscle and functional groups
Clinical Application
- Muscle should be in neutral position or slack position
- Slow application of technique, stop and wait for release
- Pain should decrease with each application
- Clear area well
Indications
- Adhesive scar tissue due to trauma
- Adhesive fascial restriction due to postural abnormalities or immobilization
- Joint restriction due to immobilization
Contra-indications
- Acute inflammation or inflammatory conditions
- Excessive hyperaemia or heat
- Unhealed wounds, burns and cute skin conditions
Physiological Effect
- Fascial tissue is separated from adhered muscle fibres
Effleurage – Massage Therapy Techniques
Technique
- Effleurage
Definition
- Slow rhythmical gliding strokes in the direction of blood flow maintaining continuous contact.
Clinical Application
- Introduction of touch
- Spreads oil or lotion
- Finishing stroke
- Ensure hands are relaxed , flexible
- Heavier pressure on upstroke and lighter on the down stroke
Indications
- Begin and end treatment
- Palpation assessment
- Sluggish circulation
- Edema
- Muscle tension
- Pain control
- Prevents adhesions and fibrosis
Contra-indications
- High blood pressure
- DVT/varicose veins
- Unhealed wound
- All local and general CI’s
Physiological Effect
- Increase superficial blood flow
- Increases blood pressure initially then decreases
- Increases permeability
- Increases lymphatic flow/ decreases edema
- Stimulates large mechanoreceptors which modulates pain
