Here are some of the questions you may have about light touch Myofascial Release Therapy

Please do get in touch if you have a question which isn't covered here.

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What is Myofascial Release Therapy

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Myofascial Release therapy is a subtle form of massage which gently encourages the fascia to release and unwind.  It is hands on, skin on skin, without use of oils or creams.   There is no active movement across the muscles but the intentional placing of my hands, in a way that creates a sense of safety in your body, prompts your body to let go of stress and tension. By applying gentle pressure and heat from my hands changes are created which allow the fascia to slide and glide better, releasing tension and restrictions throughout the body.  This helps your system move from a state of fight or flight to one of rest and digest and a move towards balance and well-being within our whole body.  The release of tension within the fascia takes the pressure off sensitive structures such as nerves and blood vessels which may have been restricted for some time.  Myofascial Release really is a whole body treatment.

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What is Fascia?

Fascia is a single web of connective tissue that surrounds and holds every organ, blood vessel, bone, nerve fiber and muscle in place like a complex 3D spider's web. Fascia does more than provide internal structure; it contains all sorts of neuro-receptors, including pain receptors, that tell us many things about our surroundings, helping us to react to the  world around us.   Fascia is what gives us our bounce and flexibility, with an incredible ability to absorb physical impact, bend and flex; and adapt to chemical change.  However when we ask too much of it or we have surgery, an accident, or it’s subjected to long-term stress such as poor sleep, dehydration, emotional and mental stress, it starts to tighten and gets sticky and restricted, with less flexibility and suppleness.  This makes it more susceptible to injury and less able to cope with the next stress that comes along.  Eventually this leads to new injury and pain, including chronic conditions that make the body even less able to cope.   On a positive note fascia is also very responsive to the gentle light touch of Myofascial Release therapy and over a series of treatments (along with other interventions such as reducing stress, improving sleep, hydration and diet) significant improvements in mobility, flexibility and reduction or eradication of pain and discomfort can be achieved.​

 

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Will it be painful or uncomfortable?

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Myofascial Release Therapy is incredibly gentle, a treatment where less is definitely more, and a soft light touch is key.   I will always work to your comfort levels, and whilst your verbal feedback is useful and encouraged, I will be continually listening to and observing your body's responses throughout the session.  It is not uncommon to feel a deep sense of relaxation or even fall asleep.  You may be aware of some sensations during treatment which include a sense of movement as the fascia softens, unwinds and lets go, a tingling or tightness in the area in which I am working or in other areas of your body far from where my hands are.  As the fascia begins to unwind you may find your body wants to move, this is very normal and will be encouraged as this unwinding movement facilitates the release of long held restrictions and patterns.  For some people there may be an emotional release which is very normal and I will hold a space for whatever may come up.

 

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How many treatments will I need?

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Everyone is individual and will respond differently to treatment.  You will likely need a number of sessions as whilst there can be some improvement within just one session, often a series of treatments is recommended for maximum effectiveness.  You may want to have treatment for a specific issue or maybe come for a regular treatment as part of looking after you.  

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What happens during the treatment?

 

At your first session I will take a full history and assessment, and begin treatment.   I will need to be able to place my hands on your body and you will be asked to undress to your underwear or, if that is not comfortable for you, wear loose clothing such as shorts and vest-top.  You will be covered by sheets/towels to maintain dignity and safety at all times.   You should be comfortable at every stage, please let me know if anything is uncomfortable.  Treatment will always be given within your comfort levels, both physically and emotionally.   I may occasionally wish to work gently inside your mouth, particularly if you have any jaw issues, and should this be appropriate we will discuss what to expect, agree how to communicate and I will wear appropriate PPE to protect both you and me.  I may also work with you sitting or standing at times.  

 

As fascia is connected throughout our whole body I may not necessarily work specifically on the areas of your body that are causing you discomfort, but wherever I am guided to work will facilitate the release of tension in all areas of the body.  I will gently encourage feedback from you as to what you can feel in your body, but this is very individual and if you are not aware of any sensations it does not mean you are not benefiting.  Most clients find as they have more sessions they become more familiar and in tune with their body and sensations. 

 

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​What can I do to help myself?

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​Home care advice will be given after each appointment and may include some simple self massage techniques and exercises.

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