One topic which keeps repeating itself, whether I am treating or teaching, is what is the “right” amount of pressure? Myofascial Release is performed with great variations in pressure and depth, with the therapist making in-the-moment decisions as to the correct pressure at any time. Some schools of Myofascial Release (MFR) claim that they are the only ones who use the correct pressure. I think they are full of crap! There are so many valuable MFR methods and teachers who make effective, lasting changes, despite the advertising claims to the contrary. No one owns the license for true, or authentic, Myofascial Release.

My pressures vary greatly, from nearly energetic in depth to quite deep, but when I use deep pressure it is never forceful. Deep pressure need not be painful, in fact if there is discomfort, your patient should describe it as a good hurt. Rather than quibbling over how much pressure is correct, I feel is more important that the therapist has the ability to touch their patient’s pain. Can you reach into the body and find the restriction? Then, does the restriction resonate with your patient, whether it is their pain or other symptom? Tactility connecting  with their issue is the essence of this work. Pressure is simply how far you need to move into the body to make that connection.

In my Foundations in Myofascial Release Seminars, as well as in my Myofascial Mentoring Program, connecting with the patient’s pain is a primary goal. Most therapists who have been performing MFR can relate to what I am describing. But if the concept seems foreign to you, take some time with your next patient to try to feel this. When you take up the slack with any technique, quiet yourself and look/feel inside. Play with the pressure, try to positively engage their tightness and pain. What does it feel like? How does your patient describe the feel? Soon you will find that you are spot-on with your palpation skills.

No matter who your teacher, Myofascial Release is a valuable modality. Make sure that you working at an optimum level by connecting with the pain.