Myofascial Release Massage Therapy (MFR)
Myofascial release massage therapy (MFR) focuses on the soft connective tissue, or fascia, to release pressure and tension, improve inflammation, and restore mobility. Throughout the entire body, the fascia surrounds and protects all structures – interconnecting bones, muscles, nerves, internal organs, and blood vessels. As the fascia is abundant throughout the entire body, injury in one area of the fascia can cause pain in another region. Disease, injury, trauma, and inactivity can lead to the fascia becoming restricted. With this restraint, individuals can experience pressure, pain, posture misalignment, and diminished blood flow, resulting in pain and limiting range of motion.
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Nicole Kung – licensed as a massage therapist in NY, certified in myofascial release, and certified in medical massage therapy – employs specific MFR techniques, such as applying constant, direct pressure to the fascia until a release occurs. Additionally, using her palms, knuckles, elbows, or other tools, she stretches and elongates the restricted fascia gradually. MFR is clinically driven and especially beneficial to those suffering from chronic pain conditions and musculoskeletal system injuries, the system that enables movement and stability.
Providing myofascial release massage therapy,
Nicole effectively helps clients:
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Relieve pressure, tension, and compression
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Improve pain and inflammation from chronic pain conditions
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Treat and prevent injuries or overuse conditions
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Restore flexibility, mobility, range of motion, muscle movement, posture, and alignment
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Stimulate blood circulation and drain the lymphatic system to assist in eliminating toxins and impurities
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Enhance the body’s natural healing and immunity
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Assist with fatigue symptoms and sleep quality
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Release endorphins to improve stress, anxiety, and depression
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Reduce stress levels to decrease Cortisol and calm the nervous system
MFR is recommended for the following conditions:
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Acute & Chronic Pain Conditions
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Alignment & Posture Issues
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Back Pain
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Carpal Tunnel
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Inflammation
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Injury Recovery & Prevention
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Migraine
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Mobility & Range of Motion Issues
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Muscular & Joint Pain
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Neck Pain
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Neuropathy
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Overuse Conditions
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Pressure & Tension
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Scar Tissue
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Sciatica Pain
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Tendonitis
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TMJ
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Trigger Points
MFR Additional Therapies
Considering a client’s unique needs, MFR sessions may include these additional therapies:
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joints on each side of the face that connect the jaw to the side of the skull. To allow for the forward, backward, and side-to-side movements of the lower jaw, and the opening and closing of the mouth, these joints work in conjunction with the facial bones and five pairs of muscles. TMJ dysfunctions occur when these joints and muscles stop working together harmoniously and create muscle spasms, resulting in pain, muscle tenderness, tissue damage, and stiffness in the jaw, face, and neck. Nicole’s approach with TMJ myofascial massage therapy includes tissue release in the surrounding areas, gentle massage on the joint (external or intra-oral), and self-care tools to practice at home.
What to Expect During MFR Sessions
An initial MFR session begins with a detailed intake of medical history. Nicole will also assess a client’s movement, posture, symptoms, and breathing patterns to determine a personalized plan. The actual treatment, which consists of various MFR techniques and other associated therapies as needed, occurs on a massage table in Nicole’s studio locations in the Chelsea neighborhood of NYC. Following a session, she will provide various recommendations for clients to integrate into daily living. For example, Nicole may provide stretches and exercises, posture and alignment suggestions, self-care practices, and ergonomic adjustments to office and home equipment.