(ri-lēs′)


1. A document that, if signed by the patient or the patient's legal representative, permits the treating health care provider to perform certain procedures. In addition to being signed by the patient, the release should also be signed by a witness. Most releases have a notation indicating the applicable time of the release.
2. To discharge.
3. To remove restraints.

capsular release

A treatment for a frozen joint, esp. a frozen shoulder, in which the tissues that are adhered are surgically separated.
SYN: SEE: joint capsular release

extended release

In pharmacology, the slow or gradual absorption of a drug after ingestion, e.g., one that achieves a peak concentration in the blood after about 6 hr.
Extended-release medications should never be chewed, crushed, cut, dissolved, or divided. They should be swallowed whole.

immediate release

In pharmacology, the rapid absorption of a drug after ingestion.

joint capsular release

SEE: Capsular release.

myofascial release

ABBR: MFR The manipulation of inflamed soft tissue to facilitate improved posture and range of motion, and to decrease musculoskeletal pain.
SEE: soft-tissue mobilization

surgical release

Freeing tissues or organs trapped in place by adhesions or scars.

sustained release

The delivery of a drug from a tablet or other reservoir over many hours or days (instead of minutes or hours), to provide a durable therapeutic effect.