Its true that not one type of treatment can give you all the health benefits you need. Myotherapy focuses on releasing muscles and soft tissue of the body where Chiropractic focuses on the skeletal alignment. Myotherapy and Chiropractic are quite different but together they work well to treat the body as a whole.
So How Different are Myotherapy and Chiropractic?
Lets take a look at the two heath professions. Firstly a Chiropractor will perform a full diagnostic assessment and may want to rule out any preexisting injury by ordering x-ray or MRI. Its always good to rule out any structural damage to the bones or soft tissue first then proceed with the best suited treatment plan for optimal symptom results. A Myotherapist will first assesses the problem and then release tight muscles and soft tissue through manual manipulation techniques to help take pressure of joints, reduce pain and allowing for proper joint movement. The two modalities complement each other very well.
For example, when diagnosed with a disc bulge its important to remember that the alignment of the spine is fundamental to reducing symptoms and return to full function. on the other hand any muscle guarding and trigger points must be identified and treated with trigger point release, massage and/or Dry Needling. If the soft tissue and muscles aren't treated ongoing pressure will be placed on the joints of the vertebrae potentially aggravating symptoms of the disc and nerve. This is when a multidisciplinary approach is the best treatment plan for the client.
Why Does Myotherapy and Chiropractic work so well together?
Both therapies complement each other because they use current research and pain science but differ in treatment techniques to achieve better outcomes. As a Myotherapist I find it crucial to refer clients that either fall out of my scope of practice or who would complement Chiropractic treatment with their current symptoms. A Chiropractor can order imaging giving a definitive diagnosis which can alter a treatment plan thus giving the best possible chance of recovery and pain free symptoms.
When Should I See a Chiropractor?
Chiropractors treat the spine and associated nerves of the body. The obvious answer to when should I see a Chiropractor is when you are experiencing musculoskeletal pain. Chiropractic is an evidence-informed, non-invasive, hands-on health care discipline. It is a drug free, surgery free system of healthcare primarily for the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, muscles and ligaments) and some of the neurological system (nerves and the spinal cord).
In addition if you have had a significant fall or car accident and are having sharp nerve pain, imaging initially might be the best option directed by your Chiropractor to work out what damage is present. For many conditions, such as low back pain, Chiropractic care is the primary method of treatment. When a multi-disciplinary approach is advisable, a Chiropractor will coordinate care with other health care professionals. Where other conditions exist, Chiropractic care may complement or support medical or other treatment by relieving the musculoskeletal aspects associated with the condition. Its always a good idea to rule out any severe damage or conditions first, when developing a thorough management plan for your symptoms.
When Should I See a Myotherapist?
Myotherapy is a manual therapy focusing on treating and managing muscular pain and dysfunction. Myotherapy can treat a wide range of pain conditions. Myotherapy addresses soft tissue, muscle tightness, trigger points, stiffness contributing to pain, stress and fatigue. If your having ongoing deep, dull aching muscle pain whether it be lower back, neck or shoulders a Myotherapist can assess the underlying issue and go about getting you moving and feeling pain free again. They take a thorough medical history and perform a physical assessment when necessary to work out what structures are involved.
They see office workers with poor posture, people exercising with ongoing niggling injuries as well as people living highly stressful lives needing maintenance treatment. Ongoing maintenance treatments with a Myotherapist helps with staying injury free and is a great prevention tool from injuries. You don't have to have an injury to see a Myotherapist however they specialise in chronic pain conditions and have the knowledge and skill set to treat these conditions.
