What is Myotherapy

• Myofascial pain – Myofascia is the connection of muscle and fascia (connective tissue). All of our muscles are surrounded and protected by fascia. Pain arising from our myofascia can originate from trigger points (local points of tension within myofascial tissue), from overloaded myofascia from exercise or poor posture, or from other inflammatory or nervous system related issues. Myofascial pain often presents with a dull aching sensation and can produce referred pain to other locations.
• Lower back pain – Lower back pain is typically a result of spinal stenosis, a sudden injury to the muscles and ligaments, osteoarthritis, compression of nerves, lack of physical activity, disk injuries, scoliosis or poor posture. Myotherapy can help decrease muscle tightness, restore the body’s natural posture and relax the spasm muscle to promote long-term healing.
• Tension headaches and migraines – Myotherapy is an excellent option for managing the causes and symptoms of tension headaches and migraines. Often the source of this issue is neck or jaw-related. The Myotherapist can employ a wide range of clinical options, including myotherapy massage, to help alleviate the pain.
• Sports injuries, such as muscle sprains, strains, and tears – Well-sought after within the professional sporting world, Myotherapy often plays a crucial role in treating and rehabilitating sports injuries. Myotherapy can not only help restore optimal activity (rehabilitation), it can reduce the likelihood of further injury.
• Tendinopathy – Tendon pain can be incredibly difficult to accurately assess and manage. Myotherapists are trained to identify tendon problems and create an effective clinical intervention that reduces pain and inflammation.
• Degenerative joint pain – Myotherapy can help alleviate pain associated with arthritic presentations and improve function to allow healthy and comfortable movement.
• Rehabilitation from surgery – Manual therapy and exercise are important for effective post-surgical recovery in many cases. Myotherapists are skilled in helping people recover faster and helping them get back to work or sport.

What Can I Expect From My First Myotherapy Appointment?

On your first visit, your Myotherapist’s goal is to gain a deep and complete picture of your symptoms and health. This will allow them to design a treatment plan tailored to what will benefit you most.

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.

Here are some things your practitioner may ask about:

• Medicines – Provide a list of any medicines you are currently taking.
• Test results – Bring along any scans, X-rays, MRI or test results about your injury or conditioner to help your Myotherapist understand the big picture.
• Long-term health goals – If you have specific goals around your physical fitness, abilities or challenges, let your Myotherapist know.
• Phobias or concerns – If you’re not comfortable with a particular treatment, let your Myotherapist know. For example, if you have a needle phobia, they can adapt your treatment plan to exclude dry needling.

Your Myotherapist will perform a thorough physical assessment. By asking the right questions and observing your ability to perform clinical tests, your Myotherapist will be able to which tissues and mechanisms are involved in your pain. Depending on your physical complaint, this assessment may involve:

• Examining the affected joints and associated muscles
• Testing your reflexes
• Checking your range of movement
• Examining your gait
• Assessing your posture
• Palpation
• Using orthopaedic, neurological and functional testing to assess your injury or complaint

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 manual therapy intervention. 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 presentation. However, you should expect to see some improvement after one or two consultations.

To book your Myotherapy session, you can do so here