Myofascial Release Techniques - Brisbane MSK Clinic

Some versions use tools to replace a therapist's hand, forearm, etc. Many such methods use specially shaped fascial releasing tools. Such techniques broadly fit under the heading IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation) these days. There are also many patented and trademarked versions of such methods, including Graston Technique ®. That said, just because something is trademarked or patented does not necessarily mean it is better than other treatment methods. Trademarks and Patents are more about protecting intellectual property and financial interests. Although the broad term IASTM is relatively new, many techniques have similarities to ancient treatment methods like Gua Sha. Most IASTM techniques involve some form of friction massage, with variations between methods. Tools also exist for self-treatment (SMFR), such as foam rollers, massage balls, massage sticks, etc. (see the related SMFR articles further down).

A more invasive and precise technique for treating myofascial trigger point pain is Trigger Point Needling. However, some patients may not like the idea of needling. There is also good evidence about the effectiveness of treating various conditions with such methods. A good practitioner should have training, knowledge, and experience in various techniques, as well as know-how and in what circumstances to apply each technique. Hence, if a technique is unsuitable for a patient, the practitioner can still achieve treatment goals using other techniques. Other less invasive evidence-based treatment options include ischemic compression techniques.

Myofascial Cupping is also a form of soft tissue therapy which involves placing small cups made of glass, plastic or silicone over the area of tissues under treatment. The method relies on creating a vacuum between the cup and the tissues under treatment. Traditionally, practitioners created a vacuum under a glass cup using a match flame, with some still using this technique. Other methods involve using a vacuum pump to remove air from within a hard plastic or glass cup via a one-way valve. Malleable cups made of silicone rubber can create a vacuum on their own. The tissues underneath the cup are pulled up within the cup and effectively stretched while the cup is in place. Practitioners often use multiple cups at the same time, and the level of the vacuum underneath the cups impacts the amount of soft tissue stretch. There is a tendency to leave cups in place for a time, though a practitioner may slide cups once they are in position. Cupping often produces clear markings and changes in skin colouration over the areas treated.

Myofascial Cupping is yet another form of myofascial release, and like Soft Tissue Release, it is possible to perform cupping actively or passively. Functional release cupping is one such method that requires active patient movement. Passive techniques rely purely on the practitioner applying techniques with little active patient participation.

Muscle Energy Techniques (METs) are a form of fascial releasing technique that can produce good results in the right circumstances. Although METs do use protocols, the methods are not patented or trademarked. There are different protocols according to the condition under treatment and the technique employed. Employing the incorrect technique in the wrong circumstances can result in muscle cramping or spasms.

Positional Release Technique (PRT) involves a treatment protocol and is effectively a form of ischemic compression. When used correctly, this can prove highly effective at reducing fascial pain and spasms. However, similar to METs, if not used correctly, the method can result in muscle spasms.

In many respects, Active Release Technique (ART) ® is essentially a sports massage stripping technique with the addition of patient or client movement. Stripping techniques used in sports massage involve statically treating tissues, with the therapist doing all the tissue movement work. However, in ART ®, the same stripping technique is used, though the tissues under treatment also get moved by the patient or the therapist, who moves the limbs under treatment with their free hand.

Soft Tissue Release (STR) is another highly versatile myofascial therapy technique. It can be applied with or without direct skin contact, meaning treatment can occur while clothed and through clothing. Equally, when treatment does involve direct skin contact, the method allows the therapist to work with or without massage lotion. Furthermore, treatment can involve passive and active patient/client participation.