What is myotherapy?
Myotherapy treatments, expands beyond massage, it is targeted to address musculoskeletal pain, injuries and dysfunctions that have an effect on person’s movement and/or mobility.
Myotherapy incorporates a deeper understanding of the human body, anatomy and physiology and looks at the functional/dysfunctional patterns of the body to help restore and maintain the correct functioning of soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia/connective tissue) of the body.
What does a myotherapist do?
During your myotherapy treatments your practitioner will perform a thorough initial assessment, physical observation, movement assessments, palpation, various muscle and joint mobility testing.
Myotherapist use a combination of assessment tools to identify the cause of one’s pain to ensure effective and long lasting results.
Myotherapy not only uses soft tissue therapy (massage) but a variety of other techniques to treat clients. Some of the other techniques include cupping therapy, dry needling, joint mobilisation, corrective and rehabilitative exercise, taping, and prescriptive advice on muscle and pain management.
What do myotherapist help with?
Myotherapy can help prevent and treat a range of acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain and disorders including:
- Lower back pain
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Jaw pain
- Tension headaches and migraines
- Sports injuries, such as muscle sprains, strains and tears
- Tendinopathy
- Myofascial/connective tissue pain
- Degenerative joint pain
- Rehabilitation from surgery
What Can I Expect From My First Myotherapy Appointment?
Prior to your first appointment, you can complete the online client form which is located on the confirmation email. Otherwise come in 5mins early to complete it before you scheduled appointment time.
The goal for the first appointment will be to gain a deeper and comprehensive understanding of your symptoms and overall health. By performing a thorough client assessment your Myotherapist will be able to design an individualised treatment plan tailored to address your condition.
Your appointment will typically last for an hour. Your Myotherapist will want to know about your current physical and mental health, medical history and health goals. To help your Myotherapist pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and provide the best care possible, it is important to answer honestly. Any information disclosed will be kept in strictest confidence.
By asking the right questions and observing your ability to perform movement tests, your Myotherapist will be able to identify which tissues and mechanisms are involved in your pain.
Once your Myotherapist has identified the right treatment or pain management plan, you will receive your first myotherapy treatment.
Your Myotherapist may provide advice on self-care strategies and exercises to utilise at home, as well as adjustments you can make to your daily routine to reduce your symptoms.
Will Myotherapy Treatment Hurt?
No, pain is not necessary to produce a therapeutic outcome. At all times, you are in control of your treatment and can accept or reject any treatment option. It’s important to maintain open communication with your Myotherapist to ensure you feel safe as well as achieving the best results. Some techniques have the potential to produce some discomfort, but at no point should you experience unmanageable pain.
How Long Does Myotherapy Take To Work?
This largely depends on your presenting condition. Chronic conditions may take up to 3 or more sessions. However, you should expect to see some improvement after one or two treatments. Follow up treatments vary depending on your presenting conditions and can range from anywhere between 4-6 weeks, or whenever required.
If desired results are not being achieved, it may be necessary to involve further investigations and a referral to other health practitioners (such as a Physiotherapist, Osteopathy, Chiropractor, Exercise Physiologist or a Specialist) may be necessary.
