7 powerful benefits of myofascial release that will transform your body and your life
Your body wasn’t designed to hurt. If you’re experiencing tightness and restricted movement, you may consider myofascial release to restore your natural function.
Let's cut through the noise. You've probably heard conflicting opinions about myofascial release - some swear by it, others dismiss it. While the research is promising, the jury is still out on the evidence base.
Here's what I know from working with over 200 clients dealing with pain. With the right approach, myofascial release offers results you can see and feel. The benefits of myofascial release aren't just theoretical - they're life-changing for people held back by chronic tension and restricted movement.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the benefits of myofascial release, how it works, and whether it’s really legitimate.
Get in touch to find out more about myofascial release in my Oxford studio
What is myofascial release? (And what people often miss)
Let’s break this down. ‘Myo’ means muscle, and ‘fascia’ is the continuous, three-dimensional mesh of fibrous connective tissue, encasing and linking all structures throughout the body. Comprising collagen and elastin, it’s dense in some areas and loose in others.
Fascia normally provides both support and glide, allowing muscles and other tissues to slide smoothly against each other. But sometimes, fascia can lose its ability to glide when it becomes less hydrated and stiff, which may contribute to a feeling of restriction and reduced mobility.
Here’s where it gets interesting (and where sometimes treatments fall short). Sometimes a restricted spot in one area of the body can cause pain to radiate elsewhere. I explain it to clients as the victim and the criminal. So, a dehydrated spot on your shoulder blade might be the criminal behind the pain in your hip - the victim.
Everything’s connected. That’s why you need to look at the whole person. Myofascial release targets the root causes instead of just masking symptoms.
Why myofascial release?
Tightness and restriction can be a pain. Clients often come to me because they want to relieve tension and move freely. The people who benefit most often deal with:
Lower back pain that makes sitting at a desk torture
Carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive strain
Pre or post surgery tightness
Sports related injuries that are getting in the way of your training
Fibromyalgia and widespread muscle tenderness
Migraines and headaches triggered by neck and shoulder tension
Chronic conditions including Parkinson’s, Fibromyalgia and ME
Myofascial release makes a difference because it’s far-reaching.
How myofascial release works: What to expect
Forget what you think you know about massage. Myofascial release is different. There’s no oil, no wax - just hands on skin. First, your therapist will have a conversation with you and take a history. It may be that an accident or surgery years ago is causing you problems with back pain now.
Next, they’ll apply pressure until they feel the tension release. Sometimes that’s slow and sustained pressure, other times it might mean moving, lifting, and twisting.
Of course, every therapist has a different approach. I guide my clients through movements to create effective releases.
As for what’s going on beneath the skin, I’ll be straight with you, experts still debate the exact mechanism. Are we changing fascial structure? Influencing the nervous system? Our understanding is limited. The research is still catching up.
What I do know is this - clients experience real results, and the benefits of myofascial release speak for themselves.
7 benefits of myofascial release
1) Immediate pain relief
This one is a game-changer. Whether it’s chronic lower back pain or stubborn neck tension, myofascial release addresses the root cause, alleviating restriction.
Clients often tell me they experience reduced pain. And the research backs this up - one study showed significant improvements in lower back pain.
2) Freedom of movement
Imagine gaining 45 degrees more shoulder mobility. I’ve seen clients who struggled to reach overhead improve their range of motion, allowing them to put the dishes away with ease. I love seeing the difference it makes to their everyday life.
3) Accelerated recovery for performance
Athletes and weekend warriors alike swear by myofascial release for recovery. Releasing muscle tension and improving circulation helps you bounce back from workouts faster and stronger.
A review of studies suggests myofascial release increases strength, power, and range of motion.
4) Enhances posture and alignment
Poor posture isn’t just about how you look - it sets you up for pain. When tight fascia pulls you out of alignment, other muscles work overtime to compensate.
Myofascial release helps restore your body's natural alignment and reduces joint strain. I've seen clients transform from hunched-over desk workers to people who carry themselves with confidence.
5) Deep relaxation
This treatment activates your parasympathetic nervous system - your body’s ‘rest and digest’ mode. Clients often say the experience helps ease stress, with many opting for a post-treatment nap (I call it the 'Esmé nap’!)
6) Scar tissue remodelling
Myofascial release can visibly improve scar tissue appearance and flexibility. Whether you have scars from injury or surgery, working with scar tissue can restore confidence.
Clients tell me it's not just about how it looks - it's about getting their full movement back.
7) Enhanced quality of life
When you relieve pain and improve freedom of movement, everything changes. Simple tasks become effortless again.
One client captured this perfectly: ‘Esmé’s approach has really renewed my confidence and helped me return to the activities I love.’ That's what it's all about - getting your life back.
Is myofascial release legitimate? The evidence
The truth is, the research on myofascial release is still emerging. One review of studies suggests the results are promising, but more research is needed.
It’s hard to measure the impact when every person and practitioner is unique. How do you design a scientific study while factoring in that individuality?
Another issue is that we don’t fully understand how myofascial release works. In my opinion, dismissing something because we don’t understand the mechanism is shortsighted.
What we do have is anecdotal evidence and countless case studies showing measurable improvements. I've witnessed clients regain shoulder function, alleviate chronic pain, and dramatically improve their quality of life.
DIY myofascial release: Your at-home toolkit
Professional treatment is powerful, but you can maintain the benefits from the comfort of your home with simple tools:
Foam rollers for large muscle groups like the legs. (The jury’s still out on the evidence, but my view is if it feels good, carry on!)
Spiky balls for targeted trigger points
Peanut-shaped tools (my go-to for releasing the spine)
Remember: firm pressure is good, but pain is not. Listen to your body and back off if something hurts.
Avoiding myofascial release dangers: Safety first
While generally very safe, occasionally, people push too hard with DIY treatments. Myofascial release of any kind should never result in bruising.
Use common sense and your intuition. Start gently, progress gradually, and only work through pain if given guidance by a therapist who knows your body and the areas troubling you. When in doubt, consult a qualified practitioner.
Ready to free yourself from pain?
Myofascial release, Oxford
Myofascial release eases tightness so you can recover your full range of motion. Get in touch to book your session and discover how myofascial release can transform your body and your life.
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