To understand myofascial release you must first understand fascia and its function.

In simplest terms, fascia’s main function is movement. Fascia is the dense, fibrous

connective tissue that interpenetrates every muscle fiber, muscle, blood vessel, bone and

organ of the body. The fascial system is a vast, continuous structure stretching from head to

toe. Picture this, if you were to remove everything from your body (or a horse’s body) except for the fascial system you would have this perfect, web-like shape of that being. If you grabbed a small part of that web and pulled, you would see other parts stretch and change, because it is all connected. If restrictions occur with in the system, inevitably movement, or lack there of, will occur. Myofascial release is a gentle, hands-on technique applied to the fascial system, using sustained pressure, to restore pliability of the fascia and restore movement. It also helps stimulate the “stretch” reflex of the muscles and its overlying fascia. It can help improve circulation, which in turn leads to the body’s inherent ability to self-heal, eliminating pain and inflammation and restoring performance.