What is Myofascial release therapy?
Myofascial Release (MFR) is a gentle, hands-on therapy used in our Bristol clinic to support both adults and children. It uses sustained pressure and slow, intentional movements to release tightness and restore ease in the myofascial system.
Fascia is the dense connective tissue that surrounds and supports every muscle, bone, organ, and cell in the body. When healthy, fascia is flexible and moves freely. However, following injury, surgery, or chronic tension, it can become tight or rigid —creating a sensation of restriction and contributing to pain or dysfunction in the body.
Unlike massage, which primarily focuses on muscle tissue, Myofascial Release works to address the underlying cause of pain and restricted movement, not just the symptoms. By working with the whole body and mind, MFR may support improved movement, comfort and overall wellbeing.
Learn more about Myofascial Release therapy here.
How may Myofascial Release Therapy for children help my child?
Parents have reported that myofascial release therapy for children has helped their child manage symptoms associated with a range of conditions, including:
Head injuries
Cerebral palsy
Birth trauma
Scoliosis
Neurological or movement dysfunction
Headaches
Constipation
Sleep difficulties
Joint pain or limited joint movement
Thoracic outlet syndrome
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction and tongue tie
Trigger and tender points
Whiplash
Complex pain complaints e.g. complex regional pain syndrome
Fibromyalgia
Myofascial pain syndromes
Plantar fasciitis / Sever’s Disease
Osgood Schlatters
Please note: Individual results will always vary. MFR is a supportive therapy and does not replace medical treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and medical advice.
What happens during a session?
During each session, Zoe carefully assesses areas of tension and applies gentle, sustained pressure or stretching. The pressure is held until the tissue begins to soften and respond, at which point the stretch may be gradually deepened. This process is repeated gently until the area feels more relaxed.
Zoe always works in tune with the child’s body, using subtle feedback to guide the pressure, direction, and duration of each technique. In many cases, only the lightest touch – just two fingers – is enough to make a difference. Progress is assessed by observing reductions in physical discomfort, improvements in mobility, and changes in emotional well-being over time.
My child will not stay still!
For young children who may have difficulty staying still or are sensitive to touch – Zoe takes a flexible, child-led approach. She gently follows the child’s natural movements, maintaining therapeutic contact in whatever position feels most comfortable for them.
Relaxing elements such as calm music, favourite books, or short videos (shared with a parent) can help children settle and feel at ease during the session. As a parent of a neurodivergent child, Zoe understands that every session may look different and often requires creativity and flexibility. She will work closely with you and your child to create a positive and supportive experience tailored to their individual needs.
Please note: It’s helpful if your child is open to trying bodywork. If they are old enough, we recommend having a conversation with them beforehand so they know what to expect and feel empowered in the process.
Does myofascial release hurt?
Myofascial release is a gentle and calming therapy. Many children feel relaxed, sleepy, or noticeably calmer after treatment. The technique is designed to be soothing, and there should never be any significant pain during a session. However, it’s not unusual for some mild discomfort or unfamiliar sensations to occur in the day or two afterward, as the body adjusts to new patterns of movement and alignment.
Our practitioner, Zoe, brings years of experience caring for children within the NHS to her Myofascial Release work. Her calm, compassionate approach helps children feel safe and supported throughout their sessions.
Real stories from parents
“We reached out to Zoe when my son had a diagnosis of Sever’s Desease and she has truly transformed his childhood and wellbeing. We were advised by other professionals to stop our son doing sports and active play at school, but since he has met Zoe, who’s truly understanding him as an individual and patiently working with him, he’s like any other 6 year old, able to take part in any activity he feels like doing. Zoe has allowed our son to be pain free, a stark difference to the child we had before who would wake in pain every single night for years. We would highly recommend Zoe for the MFR that she practices, and for her kind, warm and welcoming way, with an ability to tap into important aspects of a child’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Thank you Zoe!” C.P. 2024
“Zoe was wonderful with my 6 year old neurodivergent son. He’s carrying some tension due to a tongue tie, mostly in his neck and shoulders. She was engaging, calm, patient, and worked at my son’s speed as and when he was ready. Zoe provided a very child-centred approach. From the moment we arrived and throughout the appointment, she spoke with him directly and made him feel at ease. A lovely basket of toys helped him to settle in, and also gave him something to do and talk about with Zoe whilst the therapy was taking place. The therapy room is calm and relaxing, surrounded by beautiful gardens outside. My son has been moving and sleeping much better in the days since his treatment. Zoe also recommended some other types of therapies that may help, and provided the details of a myofunctional therapist after I struggled to find one. Since I initially contacted her she’s been so kind, helpful and knowledgeable, and I’m really grateful. I really didn’t know where to start. Zoe was the first person I contacted, and everything else has fallen into place. Thank you so much Zoe for getting us on the right path, it means I can help my daughter too. We will definitely be back to see you again.” RT 2026
If you’re curious about whether myofascial release can help your child, get in touch to book a free phone consultation or first session in our Bristol clinic.