How Myofascial Therapy Differs from Chiropractic Therapy and Why You Should Try It
Myofascial Release, what is it and how is it different from going to see my chiropractor? If you’ve asked yourself this question, you’re not alone. The short answer is Myofascial Release is much different from chiropractic care, and it makes chiropractic work so much more effective.
The long answer? Let’s break it down.
1. Differing Techniques
Myofascial Release is a three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system for a minimum of 3 to 5 minutes. The fascial system surrounds muscles, bones, nerves, organs and blood vessels and therefore acts as a handle to address multiple body systems, whereas chiropractic care only focuses on the alignment of bones.
2. Whole Body Healing
When you see your Chiropractor, their primarily focus is on the realignment of the bones of spine and other joints to heal ailments. Myofascial restrictions in the body can create 2,000 lb/sq inch of pressure or pull/strain on the bones of the spine/pelvis/joints causing them to be pulled out of alignment. If these restrictions are not addressed, the bones will inevitably be pulled back out of alignment over time due to this strain. The result is the need to be constantly re-adjusted or difficulty with adjustment "sticking". Myofascial Release focuses on the tissue itself to address the root cause of many of the alignment issues, no matter what part of the body you are trying to heal. At Be Still PT, we are able to recognize a variety of conditions and injuries, which helps us treat restrictions you might not have known existed. We work in conjunction with good chiropractic care to make both modalities more effective and efficient.
3. Pressure Differences
Fascial strains can create pressure on nerves, blood vessels, muscles and bones in great force which pulls the body out of alignment. Myofascial Release corrects this pressure right where it occurs, so instead of focusing on adjust back alignment to relieve pressure all over the body, it focuses on healing pressure into the above tissues to change alignment. Not to mention, the pressure applied in Myofascial Release involves absolutely zero “cracking” of joints.
4. Potential for Additional Injury
Unfortunately, in some cases, seeing your chiropractor can mean you come away with worsened or additional injuries. Some patients or conditions do not respond well to chiropractic techniques that focus on skeletal manipulation. Myofascial Release carries very little risk of further injury because of it’s low-impact nature.
It’s estimated that over 90% of the patients treated for pain or injury have myofacial dysfunction. Myofascial Release works to restore optimal alignment by releasing the restrictions in the fascial system causing the root of the pain. Though Myofascial Release is a non-traditional back pain cure, it is a much safer and faster-healing form of therapy.
