Myotherapy, What Is It? And How Does It Work?

The word “myo” is Greek in origin and means “muscle”, while “therapy” means “treatment”; therefore the term “myotherapy” literally means “muscle therapy”. The exact definition of “myotherapy” as per Myotherapy Association Australia is as follows:

“Myotherapy is a form of hands-on therapy which refers to the evidence-based assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal dysfunctions and associated conditions.“

As such it is fairly self explanatory what is myotherapy; but here is a simple explanation of this term. 

Myotherapy is basically a massage technique that is aimed at treating myofascial pain, injury, or dysfunction of the human body that affects mobility and movement. Myotherapists target the soft tissue structures (muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia) of the human body and manipulate those using hands-on therapies to promote optimal physical health and well being. 

Musculoskeletal dysfunction of the body can be caused by a number of factors such as:

• misuse of muscles
• overload of muscles
• poor posture
• trauma

Pain resulting from various musculoskeletal dysfunctions is termed as “myofascial pain”, here are some of the symptoms that are associated with such pain:

• tightening of muscles
• numbness 
• stiffness of joints
• constant nagging pain
• tingling sensation
• sore spots (myofascial trigger points) in the affected muscles
• reduced range of motion and mobility

Myotherapy is considered to be effective in treating a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions such as:

• head, back, and neck pain
• shoulder pain
• muscle strains and sprains
• RSI
• Tendonitis
• Muscle spasms
• Golfer’s/Tennis Elbow
• shin splints (MTSS) and plantar fasciitis
• rotator cuff injuries

Techniques Use in Myotherapy

Myotherapists use a number of advanced massage techniques such as 

• Remedial massage, 
• Trigger point therapy, 
• deep tissue massage, 
• dry needling, 
• muscle and joint mobilisation techniques, and 
• stretching exercises

The basic aim is to provide long-lasting pain relief, improve mobility, prevent injury and increase physical performance.

Melbourne Natural Therapies
Massage Melbourne