Myofascial release works on restricted fascia. Fascia is the soft tissue component of connective tissue that provides support and protection for structures within the human body, inculding muscle. Soft tissue can become restricted due to overuse, trauma, infectious agents, or inactivity. This can result in pain, muscle tension, and diminished blood flow. Although fascia and its corresponding muscle are the main targets of myofascial release, other tissue may be affected as well, including other connective tissue.
Direct myofascial release works on the restricted fascia. Your physiotherapist will slowly stretch the restricted fascia by applying small amounts of force with their hands. Direct myofascial release looks to change myofascial structures by stretching of the fascia until the deep tissues are reached.
Indirect myofascial release involves a gentle stretch, with only a few grams of pressure, which allows the fascia to unwind itself. The gentel traction applied to the restricted fascia will result in heat and increased blood flow in the area. This allows the body's inherent ablilty for self correction to return, thus eliminating pain and restoring the optimum perfomance of the body.
In addition to this, your physiostherapist will teach you stretches that will help maintian the benefits of myofascial release. You can do these between appointments, ensuring the healing process is not inhibited.
See stretching for more information on this.