What is Myofascial Release Therapy?
Myofascial Release (MFR) is a gentle, hands-on therapy that aims to support comfortable movement and a greater sense of ease in the body. It uses slow gentle pressure and movement, adapted to your child or young person’s age, needs and comfort.
Treatment considers the whole person, recognising the connection between physical comfort and emotional wellbeing. Sessions follow your child’s pace, allowing time to build trust and helping them feel comfortable, listened to and involved in their care.
Learn more about Myofascial Release therapy.
How might MFR support my child?
Every child is different. Families may seek MFR when their child experiences muscle tension, persistent discomfort or difficulty moving comfortably, or when they would benefit from a calm, supportive space to explore gentle touch. Together, we identify what matters to your child – whether that is feeling more comfortable at school, enjoying sport and play, or finding it easier to relax. We review their response over time and adapt sessions accordingly.
MFR is a supportive therapy, and benefits vary. It does not replace medical assessment, physiotherapy or other specialist care. If your child has a diagnosed condition, a recent injury, or unexplained symptoms, please speak with their healthcare team before booking. Zoe can discuss whether treatment is appropriate and how it might fit alongside their existing care.
What happens during a session?
Zoe begins by listening to you and your child: what they are experiencing, what they enjoy, and anything that might help them feel at ease. She explains what she proposes in language suited to their age and checks that they are happy to proceed. Treatment may include gentle, sustained contact, stretching and supported movement. Pressure, position and pace are adjusted throughout, guided by your child’s feedback and comfort.
Your child can ask questions, change position, take a break or stop at any time. Zoe also pays attention to non-verbal signs of discomfort or uncertainty.
Progress is considered through changes that matter in daily life, such as moving more comfortably, sleeping better, joining in favourite activities or feeling less troubled in their mind.
What if my child finds it difficult to stay still?
Your child does not need to lie perfectly still for a session. Zoe takes a flexible, child-led approach, adapting treatment to positions and movements that feel comfortable. Favourite books, familiar toys and breaks can help make the experience more reassuring.
As a parent of a neurodivergent child, Zoe understands that sensory preferences, communication and energy levels can vary from day to day. She works with you and your child to understand what helps, without rushing or expecting them to tolerate unwanted touch.
Before the appointment, a simple conversation about what to expect can be helpful. Your child does not need to know exactly how they feel about bodywork, but they should have the opportunity to explore it willingly.
Does Myofascial Release hurt?
Treatment should feel comfortable and should never be painful. Your child will never be asked to tolerate touch they do not want. Zoe will adjust or stop a technique if it feels uncomfortable. Some children find sessions relaxing; others may prefer to talk, move or play. There is no particular way they need to respond.
If your child feels sore or uncomfortable afterwards, please let Zoe know so that future sessions can be adjusted. New, significant or persistent symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
About Zoe
Zoe brings over 20 years of experience working with children and families as an NHS paediatric dietitian to her current work in Myofascial Release and soft tissue therapy. Her approach is calm, compassionate and collaborative, with time to understand each child and work towards goals that are meaningful to them and their family.
Parents’ experiences
These extracts describe individual experiences; outcomes vary.
“We reached out to Zoe when my son had a diagnosis of Sever’s Desease and she has truly transformed his childhood and wellbeing. 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 in less pain. 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 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. 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. 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. ” RT 2026
Would you like to talk it through?
If you’re wondering whether MFR might be appropriate for your child, a free telephone consultation is a chance to discuss their needs, ask questions and understand what to expect.