Myofascial Release
I get a TON of questions about Myofascial release, but the most common question is "what IS Myofascial release?"
Let's start with the basics,
What is Fascia?
Ever wonder what that weird layer is you pull off chicken breast? That is Fascia.
Fascia is a 3D "web" that surrounds every, muscle, bone, organ, nerve, tendon, vessel down to the cellular level as one continuous structure throughout the body. It is a system of support and stability but also of locomotion and flexibility.
Restrictions can occur in the tissue from trauma, over repetitive training, poor training techniques, poor posture, inflammatory response, and surgical procedures can all create restrictions. Such restrictions can cause swelling, pain, decreased range of motion, misalignment and even lameness. unfortunately Fascia strain does not show up in many standard tests your vet would run, including x-rays, and ultrasound causing many Myofascial problems to go un-diagnosed.
So what is Myofascial Release?
This is a hands on technique specific for the fascial system. This technique may seem like your masseuse isn't doing much but it takes roughly 120 seconds of gentle direct pressure to the restricted area to make it soft and pliable again allowing pain relief and restored motion. MFR works specifically on the fascial system and effects the elastin, collagen and ground substances of your equine's body.
Having a Masseuse out for Myofascial work is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to improve your horse's comfort and performance. It is often over looked, and many clients opt for deep tissue techniques instead, forgetting the basics. While muscles do make up a huge potion of the body's posture, Fascia has just as big if not a bigger role.
What about Chiropractic?
While I love Chiropractic work it is not a cure all. Chiro work ONLY effects bones, and the bone is a slave to the muscle. By moving the bone, a horses muscle is still tight, and can pull the bone back "out of place", resulting in a waste of time and money. Some Chiropractors will suggest they come more often, hoping if you move the bone enough, the muscle will respond and release.
I always suggest having an equine masseuse out about 3 days before a Chiropractor. this allows the muscles to be loose, and ready for the Chiropractic work.
