NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS OF MYOFASCIAL RELEASE IN PAIN MODULATION IN PATIENTS WITH FIBROMYALGIA: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Fibromyalgia syndrome is a chronic clinical condition characterized by widespread and diffuse musculoskeletal pain, closely associated with central sensitization and hyperactivity of the sympathetic autonomic nervous system. The general objective of this study was to analyze the neurophysiological mechanisms of myofascial release in pain modulation among patients with fibromyalgia. To this end, an integrative literature review was conducted based on the analysis of ten scientific articles indexed in international databases. The findings suggest that the manual application of sustained, low-load stimuli to fascial tissue may activate low-threshold interstitial mechanoreceptors, promoting increased parasympathetic activity and modulation of circulating cortisol levels. Furthermore, evidence indicates that tissue manipulation may be associated with the systemic release of endocannabinoids and beta-endorphins, contributing to the activation of descending inhibitory pain pathways and to increased pressure pain thresholds. It is concluded that myofascial release has the potential to reduce peripheral nociceptive input and modulate mechanisms involved in central sensitization, thereby representing a safe and promising non-pharmacological intervention for improving pain and quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia.