top of page

Why does MFR & CT Work?

Connective Tissue work is a type of  therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness, and sore shoulders.

Some of the same strokes are used as classic massage therapy, but the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain.

​

How Does Myo-Fascial Release & Connective Tissue Massage Work?

When there is chronic muscle tension or injury, there are usually adhesion's (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Adhesion's can block circulation and cause pain, limited movement, and inflammation.

Connective tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesion's to relieve pain and restore normal movement. To do this, the massage therapist often uses direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles.

​

Will Connective Tissue Work Hurt?

At certain points during the session, most people find there is usually some discomfort and pain.

It is important to tell the therapist when things hurt and if any soreness or pain you experience is outside your comfort range.

There is usually some stiffness or pain after a connective tissue session, but it should subside within a day or so. The therapist may recommend applying ice to the area after the session.

​

Benefits of Connective Tissue Work

Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, connective tissue usually focuses on a specific problem, such as:

  • Chronic pain

  • Limited mobility

  • Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury)

  • Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Postural problems

  • Ostearthritis pain

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Muscle tension or spasm

According to the August 2005 issue of Consumer Reports magazine, 34,000 people ranked deep tissue massage more effective in relieving osteoarthritis pain than physical therapy, exercise, prescription medications, chiropractic, acupuncture, diet, glucosamine and over-the-counter drugs.

Connective tissue massage also received a top ranking for fibromyalgia pain. People often notice improved range of motion immediately after a deep tissue session.

​

What Can I Expect During My Visit?

Massage therapists may use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms during the deep tissue work.

You may be asked to breathe deeply as the massage therapist works on certain tense areas.

It is important to drink plenty of water as you can after the massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues.

 

Precautions

Massage is not recommended for certain people:

  • infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds

  • immediately after surgery, unless doing Lymphatic Drainage.

  • people with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before getting a massage

  • prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage

  • massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

  • ​

Additional tips

  • don't eat a heavy meal before the session

  • if it's your first time at the clinic or spa, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.

  • ​

  • ​

Therapeutic Designs
514 Pike St
Parkersburg, WV 26101

​

bottom of page