How can Myofascial Release help tendons and ligaments?
Tendon and ligament injuries are common in the competitive equine world. Because of the limitations that fascial restrictions place on the contractile elements of muscle, muscle strength is inhibited by approximately one third of its normal strength in the presence of fascial restrictions. So fascial restrictions not only affect flexibility, but also limit a horse’s inherent strength and stability. Muscles will fatigue more quickly because they will have to overcome the enormous tensile strength of a fascial restriction. Muscle and tendon strain is then likely to occur where there is fascial restriction. Furthermore, the fascial system is composed of elastin and collagen fibers that are embedded in a gel-like matrix. This elastocollagenous complex is normally relaxed and wavy. Restricted fascia becomes like taught bands embedded in a solidified, dehydrated gel matrix. Restricted fascia loses its ability to glide and therefore affects the ability of tendons to glide smoothly at their ju
