inner outer health : aches, muscular injuries, nutrition, vitamins, minerals

What is myotherapy?
Myotherapy is the physical treatment of the soft tissues of the body, including the muscles, tendons and ligaments. The practitioner, a Myotherapist, assesses and physically treats pain, injury and dysfunction which affect movement. Myotherapy can be used throughout the corrective and rehabilitative phases of therapy to restore and maintain the normal integrity of the soft tissue structure (muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia) of the human body. An important component of myotherapy is to preventative treatments to assist in this maintenance. Back to top

When should I see a myotherapist?
If you have pain or dysfunction that you think may be caused by muscles or fascia (associated structures) you should consult a registered Myotherapist.

Pain or symptoms caused by muscle or its fascia is described as myo-fascial pain. This kind of pain is usually not specific and may be described by the patient as a 'deep ache', 'tightness' or as 'tenderness' in an area. It can vary in intensity and radiate to other areas. Other symptoms can include: a reduced range of motion of muscles and joints, stiffness, fatigue, weakness, numbness or a tingling sensation. Other symptoms are frequent and a person may experience one or more symptoms. Back to top

Do I need a referral to see a myotherapist?
No! In most cases, Myotherapists do not require a referral from a medical practitioner. However, if the individual is a client of Workcover or the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) it is essential to have a written referral from a doctor as some Myotherapists do not treat Workcover or TAC clients.

If your Myotherapist believes that you need further assessment or specialised treatment by another health professional, the Myotherapist will arrange this for you. Back to top

Can I claim myotherapy on my private health insurance?
Myotherapy is now recognised by many Private Health Cover providers and rebates may be possible however it depends on your level of cover. To avoid disappointment please check with your private health insurer to see if you can claim myotherapy before you seek treatment from a myotherapist. Back to top

What conditions do myotherapist treat?
Myotherapists treat the symptoms of a wide range of conditions as well as their cause. The cause of pain and symptoms is myofascial in many conditions. It may originate from abnormal muscle contraction ('tightness') or trigger points ('knots') in muscle or fascia. Trigger points are tender, irritable areas which can refer pain and other symptoms to areas close to, or distant from, the trigger point. They can be caused by many factors, for example, poor posture, under-use or over-use of muscles, stress, incorrect lifting or lack of sleep. Below are some conditions which respond effectively to Myotherapy treatment. Back to top

Chronic overuse syndrome - to the wrists, hands or elbows from poor posture at a computer or prolonged usage (static load)

Headaches - originating form tension in neck and shoulder muscles which refer pain to areas of the head

Stiff neck - is sometimes a result of abnormal muscle contraction which causes severe pain and discomfort on movements of the head and neck. Passive stretching, application of heat and cold, and soft tissue manipulation are used to reduce the contraction and relieve discomfort relatively quickly. Contributing factors need to be considered.

Chronic back pain - including 'sciatica' caused by tightness in some muscles and weakness in others. Restoring muscle balance and optimal posture is a major aspect of treatment for sciatica.

Shoulder pain - e.g. impingement syndrome. During overhead arm motion impingement can cause micro-trauma and result in pain and inflammation of the shoulder. Abnormal muscle contraction and trigger points can develop.

Lateral Epicondylitis - commonly known as tennis elbow. Localized tenderness of elbow and radiating pain to forearm. Occurs as a result of overuse and/or weakness of wrist extensor muscles.

Hand and finger numbness and tingling - muscle contraction in the in neck and shoulder region (the thoracic outlet) can compress nerves and/or blood vessels giving rise to these symptoms down the arms. Sitting posture especially at a computer or your sleeping position (e.g. pillow height) may be contributing factors.

Knee pain may be caused by your patella (knee cap) not tracking or moving correctly as a result of muscle imbalance in the thigh and pronation of the foot.

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome commonly known as Shin Splints, is exercise-induced pain in the front part of the lower leg.

Sprained ankle - overstretching of muscles in the calf (e.g. the peroneals) sometimes accompanies an ankle sprain.

Foot pain - sometimes referred from muscle knots and trigger points in the leg or foot muscles. Factors to consider include appropriate footwear. Back to top

What should I expect from a registered Myotherapist?
Assessment: When you visit us at inner outer health®, we will ask you about your general health and assessment your condition. Using highly developed tactile, palpatory skills and a thorough understanding of joint and muscular anatomy and function we then examine the injured joints or region. Assessment of potential causes of dysfunction and the understanding of associated pathological processes is also important. These skills are what distinguishes Myotherapy from other physical therapies.

Treatment: IRMA Myotherapists use soft tissue manipulation techniques, passive/active muscle stretching, ischaemic compression, electro-mechanical stimulation, heat therapy, cryotherapy, dry needling, corrective exercises and trigger point therapy. Back to top

What training does a myotherapist have?
Training: Myotherapists registered with the Institute of Registered Myotherapists of Australia are tertiary trained in biophysical sciences. They have a thorough knowledge of functional anatomy, surface anatomy, biomechanics, kinesiology, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, nutrition and scientific evaluation. These tertiary courses are accredited in Victoria by the Victorian Post Secondary Education Board (VPSEAB).

Recognition: Myotherapists working at inner outer health® are members of the Institute of Registered Myotherapists of Australia (IRMA) www.myotherapy.org.au . IRMA Myotherapists must adhere to IRMA’s Code of Ethics. Back to top