
What Is Bodywork & Myofascial Release?
Bodywork and myofascial release are hands-on manual therapy techniques that target the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and supports every muscle, bone, organ, and nerve in your body. When fascia becomes tight, restricted, or adhesed due to injury, surgery, poor posture, or chronic tension, it can cause pain, limit range of motion, and create compensatory movement patterns that lead to further dysfunction.
At Thrive Integrative Medicine, Dr. Tyler Andres integrates multiple bodywork disciplines into his practice. SoTai is a Japanese movement therapy that uses gentle, pain-free motions and breathing to restore structural balance. Shiatsu is a massage based in acupressure along the body's natural pathways to release muscles and promote circulation.
Myofascial release uses sustained manual pressure to stretch and release fascial restrictions, allowing tissues to return to their natural, relaxed state.
Together, these techniques offer a comprehensive, hands-on approach to pain relief and functional restoration that treats the whole body rather than isolated symptoms.
YOUR VISIT
What to Expect During Your Bodywork Session
Each session is tailored to your specific pain patterns, restrictions, and treatment goals.

Bodywork & Myofascial Release FAQs
What is the difference between myofascial release and massage?
While both involve hands-on manipulation of soft tissue, myofascial release specifically targets the fascia (connective tissue) rather than just the muscles. The techniques involve sustained pressure and stretching to release fascial adhesions and restore tissue mobility. Traditional massage focuses more on muscle relaxation and circulation. Myofascial release tends to produce longer-lasting structural changes.
What is SoTai therapy?
SoTai is a Japanese manual therapy that uses gentle, guided movements to correct structural imbalances in the body. Rather than forcing tissues into position, SoTai works with the body's natural movement patterns to restore alignment and reduce pain. It is particularly effective for chronic postural issues and movement restrictions.
Is bodywork painful?
Some discomfort is possible when working through deep fascial restrictions, but treatment should never be unbearable. Dr. Andres adjusts the pressure and technique based on your feedback throughout the session. Many patients describe the sensation as a "good hurt" that transitions into relief as the tissue releases.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the nature and duration of your condition. Acute restrictions may respond well in 2 to 4 sessions. Long-standing fascial adhesions from chronic posture issues, old injuries, or surgical scarring often benefit from a longer series of treatments. Dr. Andres will discuss a recommended plan during your initial visit.
Can bodywork be combined with acupuncture or dry needling?
Yes. Dr. Andres frequently combines bodywork with acupuncture and dry needling within a single session for a multi-modal approach. Releasing fascial restrictions through bodywork can make needling treatments more effective, and vice versa.
YOUR PROVIDER
Meet Dr. Tyler Andres, DAOM, LAc
Dr. Tyler Andres was raised in Colorado and has a deep love for the outdoors, for being active, and for helping others live their best lives. He takes pride in having helped individuals for 15 years managing pain and physical health.
He completed his Doctorate at OCOM in Oregon and pursued additional training with internationally recognized organizations.
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Doctorate of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (DAOM)
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Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc)
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NCBHAM Dipl. OM Certification
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Institute of Classics in East Asian Medicine
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Neijing Acupuncture with Dr. Neal, MD
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AcuMovement Training with D. McBride
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Ling Gui Qi Gong School with Dr. Liu


EXPLORE
Related Services

Pain Management
Neuromuscular treatments addressing the root causes of chronic pain for lasting relief and improved function.

Injury Rehabilitation
Personalized rehab plans to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility after acute or chronic injuries.

Dry Needling
Advanced trigger point therapy for tight muscles and neuromuscular dysfunction.
VISIT OUR CLINIC
Thrive Sports Medicine, Salida CO
Thrive Integrative Medicine, LLC
139 East 3rd Street, Office #1
Salida, CO 81201
Phone: 719-626-1015
Email: thrivesalida@gmail.com
Monday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Appointment by Request
Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: Closed
