Yangting Lv,1 Yiwen Yin2 

1Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Electromyography, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, People’s Republic of China

Correspondence: Yangting Lv, Department of Neurology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, NO. 318 Chaowang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, People’s Republic of China, Tel +8619538649581, Email lvyangting@yeah.net

Abstract: Myofascial release (MFR) therapy is widely used in clinical practice to treat various musculoskeletal and pain-related conditions. However, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews that systematically evaluate its effectiveness across different medical conditions, leading to inconsistent applications and understanding of its therapeutic potential. This review aims to synthesize the current applications of myofascial release therapy in the treatment of various diseases, highlighting its efficacy and identifying areas where further research is needed. The review covers the application of myofascial release therapy in conditions such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, post-surgical recovery, and neurological disorders. It evaluates the outcomes of existing studies, identifies gaps in the literature, and discusses the mechanisms through which myofascial release exerts its effects. Additionally, the review provides insights into the limitations of current research and suggests directions for future studies to enhance the clinical application of myofascial release therapy.

Keywords: myofascial release, chronic pain, cancer pain, stroke