What is Myotherapy?

Myotherapy is an evidence-based form of manual therapy that assesses, treats and rehabilitates a range of muscle, joint and nerve conditions. These conditions can occur as a result of overuse, injury, tissue degeneration, lifestyle habits and other health disorders. It aims to promote joint and soft tissue function as well as assist in the relief and management of pain resulting from the neuromusculoskeletal system. This is done through a mixture of hands-on techniques, exercise prescription and movement modification.

When should I see a Myotherapist?

Typically, people seek out Myotherapy when a movement doesn’t quite feel like it did before. This might be because it hurts, you can’t do it as long as you did before, you feel like the movement now feels stiff or perhaps because you just don’t feel as strong anymore. However, anyone can see a myotherapist at any time. Prevention is the best cure so it is better to treat something small than to ignore it and potentially have it deteriorate over time.

What can Myotherapy help with?

Myotherapists provide evidence-based assessment, treatment and rehabilitation for a wide range of musculoskeletal pain and associated conditions, examples include but are not limited to:

  • Back pain
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Headache
  • Sports injuries
  • Rotator cuff problems
  • Occupational injuries
  • Achilles tendinopathy and other ankle injuries
  • Jaw pain and clicking
  • Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain presentations
  • Tennis elbow

What are the Benefits of Myotherapy?

Myotherapy is a form of physical therapy that focuses on reducing soft tissue pain, injury, and dysfunction. This type of therapy offers numerous benefits, including managing tension headaches and migraines, reducing stress and anxiety, and preventing injuries.

Additionally, myotherapy can help restore the body’s natural posture, decrease muscle tightness and spasms, and increase mobility and tissue length in the muscles. Patients with terminal illnesses such as cancer or multiple sclerosis can also benefit from myotherapy, as it improves their quality of life and increases their overall well-being.

How Does Myotherapy Treatment Work?

Myotherapy treatment involves two main steps. First, the therapist identifies and releases trigger points in the muscles by applying targeted pressure to these specific areas. Trigger points can cause pain and dysfunction. The therapist uses palpation and compression techniques to locate these points. Once identified, they apply various techniques such as massage, stretching, and dry needling to release tension and promote muscle relaxation.

What treatment techniques do myotherapists use?

Myotherapists use a range of techniques including:

  • Dry needling
  • Myofascial Cupping
  • Remedial Massage
  • Muscle Energy Techniques (METs)
  • Joint mobilisations
  • Trigger Point Therapy
  • Exercise Prescription
  • Neuromobility techniques e.g. nerve gliding

Not all of these techniques will be needed and the techniques used will be specific to the needs of the individual

What to expect in a Myotherapy treatment?

Consults are generally broken down into 4 parts and as treatment is specific to the client, the amount of time spent on each may vary from person to person.

  • History – This is where we discuss what brought you to see a myotherapist and try to narrow down what structures in the area might be affected. The myotherapist might prompt you and want to know when it started, what makes it better or worse, the history of previous injuries that might be relevant, lifestyle habits and more.
  • Assessment – will vary from person to person but the goal is to use testing to objectively narrow down the specific structures that are affected. Testing may include; checking the range and quality of movement, neurological assessment, orthopedic testing and testing muscle strength and length.
  • Treatment – the techniques used in treatment also depend on the client and their presentation but may comprise of any combination of; soft tissue treatment e.g. massage, cupping, dry needling, joint mobilisation, muscle energy techniques (METs), exercise prescription or nerve mobility exercises.
  • Home care – More often than not the exercises you are taught in your treatment will become your home care but home care may also include advice on movement or lifestyle changes that should limit aggravation between appointments.

What do I bring to a Myotherapy appointment?

If you have any, imaging (x-ray, MRI, CT scan) and their reports for your complaint may be useful. Otherwise, just your lovely selves. If you would like to bring a support person, they are welcome as well.

What do I wear to my Myotherapy appointment?<

Ideally, anything that you can move in comfortably that doesn’t restrict your movement. For example, if you have hip pain, ideally, you wouldn’t be wearing suit pants or jeans as they typically reduce your ability to move which can impact assessment. However, if you have to wear them to your appointment, you can bring a pair of shorts along or we have some shorts in the clinic.

Do I have to be a pain to see a Myotherapist?

Not at all. Prevention is the best cure so it would be better to maintain what you have than come in when a movement is already significantly more challenging than it was before.

How To Choose a Myotherapist

When choosing a myotherapist, it’s important to think about a few key factors to ensure you receive quality and effective treatment. Here are a few things to help guide you in selecting the right myotherapist:

  • Credentials and Qualifications: Look for a myotherapist who is properly trained and registered. Check if they are a member of a recognized professional association for myotherapy.
  • Experience and Specialisation: Evaluate the myotherapist’s experience in treating conditions similar to yours. Consider their specialisation, if any, and whether it aligns with your specific needs.
  • Referrals and Recommendations: Seek recommendations from trusted sources such as healthcare professionals, friends, or family members who have had positive experiences with a myotherapist. Online reviews or testimonials can also provide insights into a myotherapist’s reputation.
  • Communication and Rapport: Effective communication is crucial for a successful treatment experience. Choose a myotherapist who listens attentively, understands your concerns, and explains the treatment plan clearly. A good rapport and comfort level with your myotherapist can enhance the therapeutic process.
  • Clinic Location and Availability: Consider the location of the myotherapy clinic. Ideally, it should be easily accessible and convenient for regular visits. Additionally, check the myotherapist’s availability to ensure their schedule aligns with yours.
  • Cost and Insurance Coverage: Inquire about the cost per session and any potential additional charges. If you have health insurance, verify if myotherapy services are covered and if the myotherapist is recognized by your insurance provider or NDIS plan.
  • Personal Preferences: Take into account your personal preferences, such as the gender of the myotherapist or the language spoken. Feeling comfortable and at ease during your sessions is essential for optimal results.

The main goal is to find a skilled and knowledgeable myotherapist who can effectively address your unique needs. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and find a myotherapist who can provide the best possible care for you.

How Much Does a Myotherapy Session Cost?

Based on current information, the average hourly rate for a myotherapy session in 2023 typically ranges from $100 to $150. This rate may vary depending on various factors such as the location and specific clinic. It’s always a good idea to contact local myotherapy clinics or check their websites to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

How Long Does It Take Myotherapy to Work?

Some individuals may start experiencing relief from symptoms after just a few sessions, while others may require multiple sessions before seeing significant improvement. It’s important to note that myotherapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments, so the timeline for effectiveness can also depend on the overall treatment plan and how well the individual responds to it.

What’s the Difference Between Myotherapy Physiotherapy and Other Treatments?

While there are similarities between the two, there are also some key differences. Myotherapy primarily targets the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments, to relieve pain and dysfunction. Physiotherapy, on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses a range of treatments and exercises aimed at improving movement and function, which may include manual therapy techniques.

Myotherapy:

  • Focuses on relieving pain and dysfunction in the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments;
  • Utilises manual therapy techniques to target specific areas of tension or dysfunction;
  • May include techniques such as soft tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and stretching exercises;
  • Aims to improve musculoskeletal function, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being.

Physiotherapy:

  • Involves a broader range of treatments and exercises to improve movement and function;
  • May include manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilisation and soft tissue massage;
  • Uses various therapeutic modalities, such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat therapy;
  • Focuses on assessing and addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries;
  • Aims to alleviate pain, improve spinal health, and enhance overall nervous system function.