Myofascial Release (MFR) is a specialized technique that addresses pain issues as well as decreased flexibility.  MFR addresses the muscle tissues and takes it one step further than traditional massage.  It also addresses the connective tissue, (fascial tissue) which surrounds all muscles and organs of the body.  One analogy is thinking of the muscle as a hand and the connective tissue a glove. If the glove is tight massaging the hand will make it feel better for a short time, however if you stretch the glove (fascial tissue) then the hand (muscle) will be able to stay stretched in the glove.