What Can Myofascial Therapy Treat?

Myofascial Therapy: How It Works, Benefits & When to Choose It

If you live with ongoing muscle tightness, “mysterious” aches or tension that never quite goes away, you may have heard of myofascial therapy. This hands-on treatment works on your fascia – the web of connective tissue around your muscles – to release restrictions, ease pain and restore easier movement. In this guide, we’ll explain what myofascial therapy is, how it works, who it can help and what to expect when you book a session in London

What Is Myofascial Therapy?

Myofascial therapy (often called myofascial release therapy or myofascial trigger point therapy) is a manual treatment that applies gentle, sustained pressure and stretching to tight or sensitive areas in the fascia. The goal is to help the tissues “let go” so muscles and joints can move more freely and comfortably.

Fascia, Trigger Points and Myofascial Pain

Fascia is a continuous, three-dimensional network of connective tissue that surrounds your muscles, bones, nerves and organs. When it becomes tight, sticky or dehydrated, it can restrict movement and cause discomfort locally or in other parts of the body.

Trigger points are tiny, hypersensitive spots in muscle and fascia that feel like knots. Pressing on them can reproduce familiar pain, sometimes in a different area (referred pain). These trigger points are a very common source of ongoing pain and tension.

Myofascial therapy focuses on these fascial restrictions and trigger points rather than just “tight muscles”. Instead of fast, gliding strokes, the therapist sinks into the tissue and waits for a slow, melting release.

Myofascial Therapy vs Myofascial Release vs Trigger Point Therapy

You’ll see several terms used online:

Myofascial therapy – umbrella term for hands-on work focused on fascia and related muscle tension.
Myofascial release therapy – usually describes gentle, sustained stretching and pressure to lengthen and soften the fascial network.
Myofascial trigger point therapy – a more specific approach that targets individual trigger points with focused pressure or stretching.

In practice, many therapists blend these methods in one myofascial therapy session, sometimes combining them with deep tissue, remedial massage or sports massage techniques.

What Can Myofascial Therapy Help With?

Myofascial therapy can be useful as part of treatment for a range of conditions involving chronic or recurrent pain, especially where there is clear muscular and fascial involvement.

Common reasons people seek myofascial therapy in London include:

Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain

Myofascial therapy is frequently used for:

Lower back pain and stiffness
Neck and upper-back tension
Shoulder pain and restricted movement

Working on fascial restrictions and trigger points in these areas can help reduce pain and improve function, especially when combined with movement and strengthening.

Headaches, Jaw Tension and TMJ-Related Issues

Trigger points in the shoulders, neck, jaw and facial muscles can refer pain into the head, contributing to tension-type headaches and jaw discomfort. Releasing these patterns with myofascial therapy or TMJ-focused massage can reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms for some people.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Repetitive Strain

Because fascia forms a continuous sleeve around muscles and nerves, restrictions higher up the arm or shoulder can influence symptoms in the hands and wrists. Myofascial therapy may be included alongside medical care and exercise programmes for conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow or repetitive strain injury.

Postural Tension, Desk Work and Sports-Related Tightness

Desk-based workers often develop persistent tightness across the chest, neck, jaw and lower back. Runners and athletes may experience fascial tightness in hips, IT bands and calves.

In both groups, myofascial therapy can complement strengthening, mobility work and sports massage, helping to restore balance through the whole fascial system.

Important: Myofascial therapy is not a replacement for medical diagnosis. Always speak to your GP or specialist about new, severe or unexplained pain.

Benefits of Myofascial Therapy

Everyone responds differently, but reported benefits of myofascial therapy include:

Pain Relief and Reduced Muscle Tension

By releasing tight fascia and deactivating trigger points, myofascial therapy can reduce:

Deep, aching muscle pain
Sharp, “catching” sensations with certain movements
Referred pain patterns (for example, from shoulder to head)

Many people describe feeling “lighter” or more open after treatment.

Better Range of Motion and Flexibility

Restricted fascia can limit how far joints and muscles can move comfortably. As it softens, you may notice:

Easier bending, twisting and reaching
Less stiffness after sitting or sleeping
Smoother, more fluid movement in daily life and exercise

Support for Chronic Pain and Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial therapy is often used within a broader programme for myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia or long-standing pain where multiple trigger points are involved. Some people report improved pain and quality of life when myofascial release is combined with other therapies such as physiotherapy or exercise.

Relaxation, Stress Relief and Better Body Awareness

Slow, focused touch helps the nervous system shift out of “fight or flight” and into a calmer state, which can:

Reduce stress and anxiety
Improve sleep and general wellbeing
Increase body awareness, making it easier to spot and manage tension before it becomes pain

Is Myofascial Therapy Safe? Risks, Side Effects and Contraindications

For most healthy adults, myofascial therapy is considered low-risk when carried out by a trained practitioner. However, like all manual therapies, it isn’t suitable for everyone.

Common, Mild Reactions (Soreness, Fatigue)

After treatment, it’s normal to feel:

Mild muscular soreness, similar to a workout
Temporary tiredness or heaviness
Increased awareness of treated areas

These effects usually settle within 24–48 hours. Gentle movement, hydration and rest can help.

When to Avoid Myofascial Release or Speak to Your GP

Myofascial release should be avoided or used with caution if you have:

Recent fractures or serious injuries
Open wounds, burns or severe bruising
Active deep vein thrombosis or clotting disorders
Severe osteoporosis or fragile bones
Certain bleeding disorders or if you are on strong blood thinners
Active infection or fever
Unexplained neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness, loss of function)

If you’re pregnant, living with cancer, have significant cardiovascular issues or complex medical conditions, it’s wise to speak to your GP or consultant before booking myofascial therapy.

Choosing a Qualified Therapist in the UK

In the UK, myofascial therapy is usually performed by massage therapists, physiotherapists, osteopaths and other manual therapists with specific training. Look for:

Appropriate professional membership and insurance
Additional training in myofascial release or myofascial trigger point therapy
Registration with a recognised body for complementary or manual therapists

Always tell your therapist about your health history, medications and any current treatment.

What to Expect in a Myofascial Therapy Session in London

Every clinic has its own style, but a typical session at a London practice like MassageTherapy.London will follow a few consistent steps.

Your Initial Consultation and Assessment

Before any hands-on work, your therapist will:

Ask about your symptoms, lifestyle and relevant medical history
Discuss what you’d like to achieve from myofascial therapy (for example less back pain, easier jaw opening, better posture)
Assess posture, movement and areas of restriction

From there, they’ll plan which regions to address in the first session – the painful spot itself, but also related areas along the fascial lines.

Techniques Used – Myofascial Release, Deep Tissue and Trigger Point Work

During the treatment you may experience a blend of:

Myofascial release – slow, sustained pressure and stretching applied with fingers, knuckles or forearms, waiting for the tissue to “melt”.
Myofascial trigger point therapy – focused pressure on specific knots, often followed by stretching.
Deep tissue or remedial massage – to address muscle layers under the fascia.
Gentle joint mobilisation or stretching, where appropriate.

At MassageTherapy.London this may be integrated into a Signature Massage or a dedicated Myofascial Release Therapy session, depending on your needs.

Does Myofascial Therapy Hurt? What the Sensation Feels Like

Myofascial therapy should not feel brutally painful. Expect:

A deep, “good” pressure on tight areas
Occasional brief discomfort as a trigger point is released
Sensations of spreading warmth, softening or “unravelling”

You should always be able to breathe and relax. If anything feels too intense or sharp, your therapist can adjust immediately.

How Many Myofascial Therapy Sessions Do You Need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer; it depends on your goals, how long the problem has been present and what else you’re doing alongside treatment.

Typical Treatment Plans for Chronic vs Acute Pain

Acute or recent issues (for example a minor strain or recent postural flare-up):

Often 2–4 sessions close together (weekly or fortnightly), then review.

Chronic conditions (long-term lower back pain, myofascial pain syndrome, postural problems):

Commonly a short initial block (3–6 sessions) followed by less frequent maintenance sessions.

Your therapist will usually reassess after a few visits and adapt the plan based on how your body responds.

How Often Should You Have Myofascial Release?

Many clinical and expert sources suggest that once a week at the start is a reasonable pattern for people with ongoing pain, reducing frequency as symptoms improve.

Ultimately, your body, schedule and budget will determine the ideal frequency.

Self-Myofascial Release at Home (Foam Rollers, Balls & Stretching)

Self-myofascial release using:

Foam rollers
Massage or lacrosse balls
Targeted stretches

can be a helpful way to maintain results between professional sessions. Studies on foam rolling show improved range of motion and reduced post-exercise soreness for many people.

Your therapist can show you safe, tailored approaches so you’re not over-doing it or irritating sensitive tissues.

Myofascial Therapy vs Regular Massage

Key Differences in Focus, Pressure and Goals

Traditional relaxation massage aims to calm the nervous system and relax general muscle tension with flowing strokes.
Deep tissue massage works more specifically into deeper layers of muscle to address knots and stiffness.
Myofascial therapy focuses on the fascia and trigger points, often using sustained pressure and holds instead of continuous movement.

In other words, regular massage is fantastic for overall relaxation; myofascial therapy is more targeted at stubborn pain patterns and restricted movement.

When Deep Tissue or Sports Massage May Be Better

You might benefit more from deep tissue or sports massage if:

You’re mainly looking for recovery after intense training
You have no specific pain, just general muscle tightness
You prefer a more rhythmic, flowing treatment

Many clients find a combined approach works best – for example, myofascial therapy for problem areas within a broader Signature Massage.

Myofascial Therapy at MassageTherapy.London

Integrated Approach – Signature Massage & Myofascial Release Therapy

At MassageTherapy.London, myofascial techniques are woven into:

Myofascial Release Therapy – focused sessions targeting fascial restrictions and trigger points
Deep Tissue / Remedial Massage – ideal for muscular tension with a strong, therapeutic feel
Signature Massage – a tailored blend of deep tissue, myofascial therapy, lymphatic drainage and relaxation work

This integrated approach means we can address both the root fascial patterns and the surrounding muscles, while also supporting your nervous system to relax and reset.

Myofascial Therapy in Central London: Who It’s For

Myofascial therapy may be particularly helpful if you:

Sit for long hours and feel “locked up” in your back, neck or hips
Experience recurring headaches, jaw tension or TMJ discomfort
Have tried standard massage but feel the relief doesn’t last
Are managing chronic pain and want a hands-on, non-pharmaceutical option alongside your medical care

How to Book Your Myofascial Therapy Session

If you’re curious whether myofascial therapy could help you, we’ll talk through your history, goals and any medical considerations before treatment. From there, we’ll build a personalised plan that may include:

Myofascial release therapy
Deep tissue or remedial massage
Sports-inspired techniques
Home care and self-myofascial release advice

Ready to move more freely again?

Book your myofascial therapy session in London today and start unravelling the tension that’s been holding you back.

Myofascial Therapy FAQs

What is myofascial therapy in simple terms? It’s a hands-on treatment that works on your body’s fascial network and muscle trigger points using gentle, sustained pressure and stretching to reduce pain and improve movement.

Is myofascial therapy the same as myofascial release therapy? Myofascial release therapy is one major technique used within myofascial therapy. Many therapists use the terms interchangeably, but myofascial therapy can also include trigger point work, deep tissue massage and stretching.

Is myofascial therapy painful? You may feel strong pressure or brief discomfort on tight spots, but myofascial therapy should never feel overwhelmingly painful. You should always be able to breathe and relax, and your therapist will adjust to your comfort level.

Is myofascial release therapy safe for everyone? It’s generally safe for most healthy adults, but people with fractures, severe osteoporosis, clotting disorders, open wounds, active infections or serious medical conditions need medical guidance first. When in doubt, speak to your GP before booking.

How often should I have myofascial release sessions? A common pattern is weekly sessions at the start for chronic issues, then less frequently for maintenance. Your therapist will tailor the frequency based on your progress and overall treatment plan.

Can myofascial therapy help with lower back pain? Yes – it is often included in programmes for non-specific lower back pain, especially where muscle and fascial tightness play a role. Results are usually best when combined with exercise, lifestyle changes and medical input where needed.

What is the difference between myofascial therapy and deep tissue massage? Deep tissue focuses on deeper muscle layers with slow, firm strokes. Myofascial therapy targets the fascia and trigger points using holds and stretches, often staying in one area for longer.

Can I do self-myofascial release instead of seeing a therapist? Foam rolling and ball work can be very helpful, but they don’t fully replace a skilled therapist who can assess your whole body, spot patterns and work on areas you can’t reach effectively. It’s usually best to combine both.

About the Author

Marta Suchanska is the founder of MɅSSɅGE, a Certified Massage Therapist, Nutritional Therapist, and final-year student of Osteopathic Medicine based in Marylebone, London. With over 10 years of experience, she specialises in a holistic, personalised approach to women’s health and chronic pain. Marta’s mission is to address root causes, helping clients restore balance and long-term wellbeing.

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