I see clients on my table every week with frustrating, undiagnosable aches and pains. When traditional medical tests like MRIs and X-rays fail to identify the source of our discomfort, it leaves us searching for answers and that, for some reason, is when people find me. Most of the time, these mysterious pains stem from myofascial dysfunction, when soft tissues develop restrictions, causing discomfort and limited mobility. In this post, we'll explore the causes of undiagnosable aches and pains and how self myofascial release can offer profound relief.
What Causes Myofascial Dysfunction?
Ambiguous aches and pains can result from many factors that are highly personal, but the main sources of fascial restriction are from postural patterning, the "startle response," and compensation patterns from previous injuries. These issues can lead to restrictions in the soft tissues, causing discomfort that conventional medical tests may fail to detect.
Self Myofascial Release
One effective method for addressing undiagnosable aches and pains is through self myofascial release techniques. These techniques involve targeting and releasing tension in the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs. Two common methods of self myofascial release are foam rolling and fascial stretches and you’re luckyyy because I specialize in teaching these. ;)
Foam rolling involves using a foam roller to apply pressure to specific areas of the body, releasing tension and promoting relaxation in the muscles and fascia. This technique can help alleviate stiffness and discomfort caused by myofascial restrictions. Fascial stretches target the various lines of fascia, helping to improve flexibility and mobility while reducing tension and stiffness in the soft tissues. These stretches can be performed using various techniques and are often incorporated into yoga or flexibility routines. The reason why these things work to release fascial restrictions is because they increase fascial glide.
Fascial Glide
Self myofascial release techniques like foam rolling and fascial stretches work by increasing fascial glide, which refers to the smooth movement of fascial layers against each other, muscles and organs. Increasing fascial glide through pressure and stretches, we end up alleviating stiffness, improving circulation, and enhancing the efficiency of the lymphatic and nervous systems. Additionally, foam rolling increases proprioception, the body's awareness of its position in space, by manually connecting to tissues and enhancing sensory feedback. Honestly, it feels SO dope to be both the giver AND the receiver of massage therapy techniques!
How To?
If you're interested in experiencing the benefits of self myofascial release, join my Patreon for on-demand foam rolling classes! Additionally, my upcoming, 5-week live-class series will provide structured guidance and support as you explore these techniques. We start May 9th! I’ve actually attached a 15 minute, as-full-body-as-you-can-get-in-15-minutes class for you to experience yourself. Join me for WAY MORE relief and better harmony within!
As usual, thanks for being here!
Self Myofascial Release; What, Why and How