Conditions treated with Myofascial Release

Welcome to our comprehensive library, a dedicated resource for patients exploring the healing possibilities of myofascial release. Here, you’ll find a wide array of articles covering successful treatments for conditions ranging from back and joint pain to specific women’s health issues like vulvodynia, and even including techniques for vagus nerve regulation. Each piece is curated to offer insights into how myofascial release can provide relief and improve quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain or discomfort. Dive into our collection to discover how this therapeutic approach can be tailored to meet your individual health needs and guide you on the path to recovery.

Common Conditions Seen by an MFR Therapist

Back Pain

Back pain is a common medical condition characterized by discomfort, pain, or stiffness affecting the back, particularly the muscles, bones, nerves, and other structures in the spinal region. The pain can vary widely in intensity, duration, and location, and it may be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Symptoms can include localized pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, and limited range of motion. Back pain can be caused by muscle strain, disc problems, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, scoliosis, trauma or injury, and poor posture.
Why is Back Pain So Common

Why is Back Pain So Common

by | Mar 22, 2024 | ,

Almost everyone knows at least one person who suffers from back pain, you may have it yourself. So why is back pain so common? The answer is simple; we sit too much. Think of your typical day. How many hours do you spend sitting? According to a 2016 study published in...

Headaches

Headaches are a common medical condition characterized by pain or discomfort in the head or upper neck. They can vary in intensity, duration, and frequency. Headaches may result from various causes, including tension, dehydration, lack of sleep, sinus congestion, or underlying medical conditions. The pain can be dull or throbbing and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, or visual disturbances. Headaches can be primary, where they are the main condition, or secondary, arising from another underlying issue.

Whiplash

Whiplash is a type of neck injury that commonly occurs when the head is suddenly and forcefully jerked backward and then forward. This rapid back-and-forth motion can strain or damage the soft tissues in the neck, including muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Whiplash is often associated with motor vehicle accidents, particularly rear-end collisions, but it can also result from sports injuries, falls, or other sudden impacts. Common symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and difficulty moving the neck. In some cases, individuals may experience additional symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or tingling in the arms.

Neck Pain

Neck pain is a sensation of discomfort, stiffness, or pain localized in the area of the neck, which extends from the base of the skull to the top of the shoulders. It can result from various causes, including muscle strain, ligament sprains, poor posture, osteoarthritis, nerve compression, and injuries such as whiplash. Additionally, stress, tension, and underlying medical conditions can contribute to neck pain. The pain may be sharp or dull, and it can be accompanied by other symptoms such as headaches, shoulder pain, or limited range of motion.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is persistent and long-lasting discomfort or pain that extends beyond the expected period of healing for an injury or illness, typically persisting for three to six months or longer. Unlike acute pain, which serves as a warning signal for an immediate threat or injury, chronic pain may linger for an extended period and can impact one’s quality of life. Chronic pain can result from various causes, including injuries, medical conditions (such as arthritis or fibromyalgia), nerve damage, or as a consequence of surgery.

Migraines

A migraine is a type of headache disorder characterized by recurrent, throbbing headaches that typically affect one side of the head. Migraines often come with additional symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and sound (phonophobia). The pain and accompanying symptoms can be severe and disabling, lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days. There are two main types of migraines: those with and without auras. An aura is a specific warning sign before the onset of the headache that can include visual disturbances and other neurological symptoms.

Women’s Health Articles

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition characterized by persistent, unexplained pain in the vulva—the external genital area of a woman. This pain is often described as burning, stinging, irritation, or rawness, and it can occur spontaneously or be triggered by activities such as sexual intercourse or prolonged sitting. The exact cause of vulvodynia is not well understood, and it is believed to involve complex interactions between genetic, hormonal, neurological, and psychological factors. Factors such as nerve irritation, muscle abnormalities, and hormonal changes may contribute to the development of vulvodynia.

Painful Scars

Painful scars refers to scars on the skin that cause discomfort or pain. Scars are a natural part of the body’s healing process after an injury, surgery, or skin condition. While many scars are painless and fade over time, some individuals may experience pain or discomfort associated with their scars. Several factors can contribute to painful scars such as keloid or hypertrophic scars, nerve damage, contracture scars, infections or complications, and persistent inflammation.

Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as painful bladder syndrome (PBS), is a chronic condition characterized by pain and discomfort in the bladder and surrounding pelvic region. It is considered a type of bladder pain syndrome. Interstitial cystitis can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may be associated with urinary urgency, frequency, and pelvic pain. The exact cause of interstitial cystitis is not well understood, and it is likely to involve a combination of factors, including abnormalities in the protective lining of the bladder, inflammation, and dysfunction of the pelvic nerves.

Mastectomy Pain

Mastectomy pain refers to the pain that can occur after a mastectomy, which is the surgical removal of one or both breasts, often performed as a treatment for breast cancer or as a preventive measure in individuals at high risk of developing breast cancer. Post-mastectomy pain can manifest in various ways and may include acute surgical pain, chronic pain, phantom breast pain, scar tissue pain, and nerve pain.

Menstrual Problems

Menstrual problems refer to a range of irregularities, discomforts, or abnormalities in the menstrual cycle, which is the monthly series of changes a woman’s body goes through in preparation for the possibility of pregnancy. Menstrual problems can affect various aspects of the menstrual cycle, including its regularity, duration, and the intensity of associated symptoms.

Painful Intercourse

Painful intercourse, medically known as dyspareunia, refers to persistent pain or discomfort during sexual activity. This condition may occur before, during, or after sexual intercourse. Painful intercourse can have various causes, and it’s important to identify and address the underlying factors.

Urinary Frequency

Urinary frequency refers to the need to urinate more often than what is considered typical for an individual. It is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors, ranging from temporary issues such as increased fluid intake to more serious underlying medical conditions. The frequency of urination can vary from person to person, and what may be considered normal can depend on factors such as age, overall health, and individual habits.

Problematic Breast Implant/Reduction Scars

Problematic breast implant or reduction scars refer to the presence of undesirable or troublesome scarring that can occur after breast augmentation with implants or breast reduction surgery. Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after surgery, but in some cases, the scars may exhibit characteristics that cause concern, dissatisfaction, or even pain.

Coccydynia

Coccydynia refers to pain in the coccyx, which is the small, triangular bone at the base of the spine, commonly known as the tailbone. The pain associated with coccydynia is typically localized and may range from mild to severe. This condition can be caused by various factors, and the pain may be aggravated by sitting, standing up from a seated position, or activities that put pressure on the coccyx.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a medical condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, called endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on various pelvic organs, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining the pelvis. In some rare cases, endometrial tissue may even spread beyond the pelvic region. The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood. Key features of endometriosis include, pain, menstrual irregularities, infertility, painful intercourse, gastrointestinal symptoms, and bladder symptoms.

Infertility Problems

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive or achieve a successful pregnancy after a year or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. It is a reproductive health condition that can affect individuals or couples, and it may be caused by various factors in both men and women.

Urinary Urgency

Urinary urgency refers to a strong and compelling urge to urinate that is difficult to delay or control. Individuals experiencing urinary urgency may feel an intense and sudden need to empty their bladder, often with the sensation that they must rush to the restroom. This urgency can be associated with conditions such as overactive bladder (OAB), urinary tract infections (UTIs), or other bladder-related issues.
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John F. Barnes, PT has written numerous articles in national publications documenting the benefits of Myofascial Release.

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