Are myotherapists doctors?
A medical doctor can train to be a myotherapist; however, myotherapists are not doctors. To train as a myotherapist, the practitioner must already be fully qualified in advanced remedial massage, and many hold a Bachelor’s degree in anatomy, physiology or related fields.
What techniques to myotherapists use?
Myotherapy uses a range of techniques which may include both sports and remedial techniques of massage, gently moving the patient’s affected body part through its range of motion. Other treatments may include the application of hot or cold packs, trigger point therapy (acupressure), dry needling, and myofascial release, which involves gentle massage of the myofascial tissue. Your therapist will look for stiff or tightened areas (normal myofascial tissue should feel pliable and elastic). They will then begin massaging and stretching the areas that feel rigid with light manual pressure, aiming to release contractions of the muscle that may be putting pressure on the surrounding tissue.
How long does a myotherapy session last?
Typically, an appointment will last between 30-60 minutes, depending on your condition. Your initial appointment may be longer than this, and follow-up sessions shorter.
What are the most common conditions myotherapists treat?
The most common type of condition treated by a myotherapist are headaches, followed by sports injuries. Many of these are joint and muscle strains, followed by tendon and overuse injuries. Sciatica; ‘tennis elbow’; shoulder pain, chronic knee pain numbness of the hand and fingers; repetitive strain injury (RSI) from repeated movements such as computer use; shin splints (pain in the lower legs); stiff neck; foot pain and sprained ankle are all common complaints that can be effectively treated with myotherapy.
What will happen at my first myotherapy appointment?
For your first appointment, please bring any medical test results and reports (such as X-ray films or scans) that relate to your condition. The myotherapist will ask questions about your symptoms, your medical history, prior illnesses and surgery. Bring a list of all the medications that you currently take, both prescribed and over-the-counter. Your myotherapist will undertake a physical assessment as well as orthopaedic and/or neural tests to assess the level of dysfunction and pain you are experiencing. Your initial examination helps the practitioner to find out if the symptoms are myofascial. The myotherapist may refer you to other healthcare professionals for further diagnosis or treatment, depending on your medical condition.
Can myotherapists diagnose an injury?
Myotherapists are first contact practitioners and do not require a referral from a doctor. Like doctors, myotherapists are able to diagnose an injury, and follow it up with a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
How many myotherapy sessions will I need?
The number of sessions you require will depend on the severity of your condition, Your practitioner can advise you of how long it will likely take to effectively treat your condition.
What age-groups can benefit from myotherapy?
Myotherapy is suitable for, and can benefit, all age-groups, from children (particularly those who have experienced growth spurts, combined with participating in sports) to the elderly.
