Myofascial Release (MFR) is a manual massage technique that releases tension in the fascia or connective tissue of the body by either applying shear compression or pressure in various directions, or by skinrolling the skin. This tension can be caused by trauma, inflammatory responses, and/or surgical procedures. MFR stretches the fascia, thereby releasing bonds between fascia, skin, and muscles.

Myofascial techniques generally fall under the two main categories of: PASSIVE (patient stays completely relaxed) or ACTIVE (patient provides resistance as necessary), with direct and indirect techniques used in each.

The goal of Myofascial Release (MFR) is not only pain management but increasing range of motion (ROM), relaxing contracted muscles, improving blood and lymphatic circulation, stimulating the stretch reflex in muscles, and restoring a sense of balance.