What Is Myotherapy
You’ve probably heard of physiotherapy, but what is myotherapy? Based on its definition we can say that myotherapy is really part of physiotherapy. Simply put, myotherapists help to treat and manage pain and restricted mobility that comes from problems with the jacket of muscles that covers our bones and that gives us our strength and suppleness.
Joint Pain and Muscle Dysfunction
Most of us think we know what sore muscles feel like, but sometimes, joint pain can also be caused by muscle dysfunction. Remember, your joints are only able to support movement because there are muscles to bring that about. So, although you may feel pain and stiffness in your joints, the soft tissues could be the cause of the problem.
Other Symptoms Triggered by Muscle Fascia Dysfunction
Apart from joint pain and stiffness, myofascial issues can cause aches and pains in just about any part of the body. The tight muscles can “pinch” nerves causing tingling, numbness, or shooting pain or referred pain.
Well-known conditions that stem from myofascial dysfunction include tennis elbow or golfers elbow. The most common problem coming from muscle tension and inflammation is lower back pain.
What’s the Difference between Physiotherapy and Myotherapy?
Some physiotherapy practices employ myotherapists. But physiotherapists themselves use similar techniques to a greater or lesser degree. Massage is very important in myotherapy, while physiotherapists may use massage, but as only one of a range of methods.
A myotherapist is a qualified professional with a 3-year degree. A physiotherapist, on the other hand, will have a 4-year university degree and must fulfil ongoing requirements to remain registered as a practitioner.
What’s a Consultation Like?
Visiting a myotherapist for an assessment is very similar to visiting a physiotherapist. First, you will have a conversation about your symptoms and medical history. Next, the therapist will examine the joints and muscles, manipulating them gently to look for areas of restricted movement.
Then, your therapist will explain your treatment plan as well as what will be required of you to make the intervention as effective as possible.
After your initial consultation, you will have your first treatment session which last about an hour. Many people will notice some relief from pain after the first session, and most will feel positive effects within three sessions.
Home Care and Underlying Causes
Like physiotherapists, myotherapists will give you advice about things you can do in your daily life that will help you to manage pain and recover faster. This can range from specific exercises or actions designed to relieve muscle tension to simple things you can do to relieve pain and inflammation.
The myotherapist also tries to determine the underlying cause of the myofascial problem and any factors that could be making it worse. For example, poor posture or un-ergonomic work practices will contribute to symptoms and aggravate them.
Escape the Misery of Muscle Pain
Everybody has muscle aches and pains at one time or another, but if they are severe or persistent, some extra help is in order. Myotherapy takes care of the muscles, helping you to recover freedom of movement and get pain relief. Physiotherapy offers a still broader repertoire of treatments, but includes methods used to treat myofascial issues.
