Myofascial Release Therapy: How It Works, What It Treats, and What to Expect
Updated: 6 days ago
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026 · How we review
Quick Answer: What is myofascial release therapy?
Myofascial release therapy is a hands-on technique that eases pain and tightness in the fascia, the web of connective tissue that covers and supports your muscles. A trained provider finds stiff trigger points, or knots, and applies gentle, steady pressure until the tension releases. It may help back pain, fibromyalgia, TMJ disorder and other conditions. [1]
What the research says
Foam rolling can improve flexibility in the short term. A systematic review of 14 studies found that self-myofascial release with a foam roll or roller massager appears to increase joint range of motion for a short time without weakening muscle performance, and may reduce muscle soreness after intense exercise (Cheatham et al., Int J Sports Phys Ther, 2015). [3]
For low back pain, it reduced disability more than pain. A meta-analysis of 8 randomized trials with 386 patients found myofascial release significantly lowered back disability (SMD −0.35), but it did not significantly reduce pain intensity or improve quality of life or lower-back range of motion (Chen et al., Complement Ther Med, 2021). [2]
Results for orthopaedic problems are positive but low quality. A systematic review of 10 studies, 6 of them case studies, reported generally positive outcomes with myofascial release, but study quality was too low to draw firm conclusions (McKenney et al., J Athl Train, 2013). [4]
Key takeaways
Myofascial release targets the fascia, not the muscles themselves. [1]
It is also called myofascial trigger point therapy because the pain starts at stiff "knots" in the fascia. [1]
Providers use direct skin contact with no oils or lotions, so they can feel the tight tissue. [1]
Sessions last 15 to 50 minutes and may be repeated every one to three days for weeks or months. [1]
Serious side effects are rare, but some conditions, such as fractures, burns, open wounds and deep vein thrombosis, call for a talk with your provider first. [1]
What is fascia and why does fascia get tight?
Fascia is a stringy, spider-web-like connective tissue woven through your muscles, bones, nerves, blood vessels and organs as one continuous structure. [1] Because every part of your body connects to it, a snag in one area can cause pain somewhere else. [1]
Healthy fascia is flexible, stretchy and strong. It supports your body's structure, protects your muscles and normally moves without restriction. [1]
After any kind of trauma, fascia loses its flexibility and becomes tight and rigid. [1] That tightness can cause pain and loss of motion, which can affect your quality of life. [1]
Is myofascial release therapy the same as trigger point therapy?
Yes, myofascial release therapy is also called myofascial trigger point therapy, because myofascial pain starts at trigger points in the body. [1] Trigger points are stiff areas in the fascia that feel like small bumps, nodules or knots in your muscles. [1]
Tight trigger points can limit how your muscles and joints move. They may cause pain right at the spot or widespread pain throughout your body. [1] Myofascial release focuses on letting go of the tension in these points. [1]
Who can benefit from myofascial release therapy?
Myofascial release therapy may help anyone with tightness in their fascial tissues. [1] People who have been through the following experiences may benefit most:
Cause of fascia tightness | Examples |
Physical trauma | Falls, car accidents, whiplash |
Scarring | Frozen shoulder, burns, surgery |
Inflammation | Bursitis, osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis |
Compressed nerves | Herniated disks, carpal tunnel syndrome |
Repetitive stress injuries | Heavy lifting, poor posture |
Source: [1]
What conditions does myofascial release therapy treat?
Myofascial release therapy may be used to treat several conditions linked to tight or painful connective tissue. [1]
Condition | What it involves |
Myofascial pain syndrome | Pain in the connective tissues |
Pain, numbness and weakness in the hands and wrists | |
Strain of back muscles and tendons that reduces spine motion and flexibility | |
Inflamed muscles around the jaw joints | |
Fibromyalgia | A long-term illness that causes muscle and joint pain |
Frequent throbbing headaches |
Source: [1]
Who performs myofascial release therapy?
Myofascial release therapy is performed by a healthcare provider trained in the technique. [1] Your provider may be a:
Physical therapist
Occupational therapist
Massage therapist
Chiropractor
Sports medicine specialist
Athletic trainer
Osteopathic physician
Many osteopathic physicians are trained in myofascial release. [1]
What happens during a myofascial release therapy session?
During a myofascial release therapy session, your provider finds the stiff, tight areas in your fascia and applies gentle, constant pressure to them in a private room at their office. [1]
Locate the knots. Your provider feels for fascial tissue that is stiff and tight. These spots are called trigger points or knots. [1]
Apply steady pressure. They press gently and constantly on each knot, using direct skin contact with no oils or lotions so they can feel the tightness. [1]
Knead and stretch slowly. Pressure is applied slowly to lengthen the fascia. Your provider kneads and stretches the tissue again and again. [1]
Move on when it releases. Once they feel the pressure and tension let go, they move to the next area. [1]
What happens after myofascial release therapy?
After myofascial release therapy, you may feel sore in the stretched areas, but the soreness should fade fairly quickly and the area should feel looser than before. [1]
For the most benefit, you need to see your provider consistently. [1]
Detail | What to expect |
How often | Every one to three days |
Session length | 15 to 50 minutes |
Total course | A few weeks to a few months |
What decides the course | The cause and severity of your condition |
Source: [1]
What are the benefits of myofascial release therapy?
Myofascial release therapy may reduce pain, improve movement, boost circulation, aid relaxation and ease stress, although it has been studied less than other massage methods. [1]
Pain management: Soreness may ease and your tissues may begin to recover. [1]
Better movement: Range of motion in your muscles and joints may improve. [1]
Improved circulation: Blood and oxygen may move more efficiently through your body. [1]
Relaxation: Massage therapy has been shown to help the body relax and loosen knots. [1]
Stress management: Tension throughout your body may be released. [1]
The research so far is mixed. For low back pain, one meta-analysis found myofascial release lowered disability but not pain intensity, and it may work best as an add-on to physical or exercise therapy. [2]
What are the risks of myofascial release therapy?
Myofascial release therapy has few risks, like other forms of massage therapy. [1] In rare cases, it can cause:
Internal bleeding
Trouble moving your muscles
Short-term paralysis
Nerve damage
Source: [1]
Talk to your healthcare provider before starting if you have any of the conditions below. They may suggest avoiding myofascial release or trying a different therapy. [1]
Injuries and skin conditions | Blood and metabolic conditions |
Bone fractures | |
Burns | Conditions that require blood thinners |
Open wounds | Metabolic conditions |
Source: [1]
How does self-myofascial release work at home?
Self-myofascial release is a home version of the technique in which you use a foam roller or roller massager to apply gentle pressure to your own fascia. [1] Basic techniques are widely shown in online videos. [1]
Some studies show foam rolling can increase joint range of motion. [1] A review of 14 studies found these short-term gains came without a drop in muscle performance, and short bouts of foam rolling before exercise did not appear to affect performance. [3] There is still no agreed best routine. [3]
Ask your healthcare provider before trying any self-treatment. [1]
How is myofascial release therapy different from fascial stretch therapy?
Myofascial release therapy applies pressure to specific tight spots, while fascial stretch therapy moves parts of your body to stretch the fascia without targeted pressure. [1]
Feature | Myofascial release therapy | Fascial stretch therapy |
Main target | Fascial tissue | Fascial tissue |
Technique | Gentle, constant pressure on trigger points | Moving a body part, such as an arm or leg |
Pressure on specific spots | Yes | No |
Goal | Release tension in knots | Stretch the fascia |
Source: [1]
How can you find a myofascial release therapist?
The simplest way to find a myofascial release therapist is to ask your healthcare provider. [1] If they are not trained in it, they may refer you to someone who is, such as a chiropractor, physical therapist, occupational therapist, licensed massage therapist, or sports medicine provider or athletic trainer. [1]
Myofascial release therapy at a glance
Question | Answer |
What it targets | Fascia, the connective tissue around muscles |
Other name | Myofascial trigger point therapy |
Technique | Gentle, constant pressure and slow stretching, no oils or lotions |
Session length | 15–50 minutes |
Frequency | Every 1–3 days |
Course length | A few weeks to a few months |
Common aftereffect | Short-lived soreness, then looser tissue |
Rare risks | Internal bleeding, trouble moving muscles, short-term paralysis, nerve damage |
Evidence level | Promising but limited; less studied than other massage methods |
Conclusion
Myofascial release therapy aims to loosen tight, stiff fascia with gentle, steady pressure, which may ease pain and improve movement in conditions such as low back pain, TMJ disorder, carpal tunnel syndrome and fibromyalgia. [1] Research has not proven it works for everyone, and some studies are small or low quality, so it is worth discussing with your provider alongside more traditional therapies. [1][2][4] Serious side effects are rare, but people with fractures, burns, open wounds, deep vein thrombosis, blood-thinner use or metabolic conditions should check with a provider first. [1]
Living with muscle or joint pain? Ask your healthcare provider whether myofascial release therapy fits your situation, and keep exploring our doctor-reviewed health guides on back pain, TMJ disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome and more to understand your options.
FAQ
What does myofascial release therapy feel like?
Myofascial release therapy feels like slow, gentle, constant pressure on stiff spots, followed by kneading and stretching of the tissue. Afterward, the treated areas may feel sore for a short time and then looser than before. [1]
How long does a myofascial release therapy session last?
A myofascial release therapy session lasts 15 to 50 minutes. Providers may recommend sessions every one to three days for a few weeks or a few months, depending on the cause and severity of your condition. [1]
Is myofascial release therapy safe?
Myofascial release therapy is generally low risk, like other forms of massage therapy. Rarely, it can cause internal bleeding, trouble moving muscles, short-term paralysis or nerve damage. [1]
Who should avoid myofascial release therapy?
People with bone fractures, burns, open wounds, deep vein thrombosis, metabolic conditions or conditions that require blood thinners should talk to a healthcare provider before trying myofascial release therapy. The provider may suggest avoiding it or choosing a different therapy. [1]
Does myofascial release therapy work for back pain?
Myofascial release therapy may help back pain by reducing disability. A meta-analysis of 8 trials found it significantly lowered back disability but did not significantly reduce pain intensity, and it may work best alongside physical or exercise therapy. [2]
Can I do myofascial release on myself?
Self-myofascial release can be done at home with a foam roller or roller massager that applies gentle pressure to the fascia. Ask your healthcare provider before trying any self-treatment. [1]
Why are oils or lotions not used in myofascial release therapy?
Oils and lotions are not used in myofascial release therapy because the provider needs direct skin contact to feel the tightness in your fascia. [1]
Is myofascial release therapy the same as a regular massage?
Myofascial release therapy is a type of gentle, constant massage, but it focuses on releasing tension in the fascia rather than the muscles themselves. It has also been studied less than other massage methods. [1]
How many myofascial release sessions will I need?
It depends on your condition and goals. Your provider will suggest a plan and check how you respond over several visits.
Is it normal to be sore after myofascial release?
Yes. Mild soreness in the treated areas is common and should fade fairly quickly. Call your provider if pain is severe or lasts more than a few days.
Related Reading
What Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome? A Plain-Language Guide to the Muscle Pain That Won't Quit explains trigger point pain in muscles and fascia and its treatment.
Understanding Fascia: The Body's Internal Support Network describes what fascia is and how it supports the body.
Trigger Point Injections: How They Work, What to Expect, and How Long Relief Lasts explains injections that relax painful muscle knots.
Physical Therapy: Enhancing Mobility, Strength, and Recovery covers how physical therapy improves movement and eases pain.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Myofascial Release Therapy. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated August 15, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24011-myofascial-release-therapy
Chen Z, Wu J, Wang X, et al. The effects of myofascial release technique for patients with low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med. 2021;59:102737. PMID 33984499. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102737
Cheatham SW, Kolber MJ, Cain M, et al. The effects of self-myofascial release using a foam roll or roller massager on joint range of motion, muscle recovery, and performance: a systematic review. Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2015;10(6):827-838. PMID 26618062. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26618062/
McKenney K, Elder AS, Elder C, et al. Myofascial release as a treatment for orthopaedic conditions: a systematic review. J Athl Train. 2013;48(4):522-527. PMID 23725488. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-48.3.17
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your symptoms and before starting any new therapy, including myofascial release or self-treatment at home.
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