Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) is a special form of massage. It is distinguished from other types of massage in that a quasi-static pressure is applied to the skin with the aim of stimulating specific areas of skeletal muscle. Often these areas of muscle are myofascial trigger points.
The application of NMT is dependent on several key factors:
- The location of myofascial trigger points
- Force has to be applied perpendicular to the skin surface if muscle is to be stimulated.
A primary focus of NMT is to understand the formation, etiology and treatment of myofascial trigger points (TrPs). In NMT a special effort is made to locate the source of referred pain including any perpetuating influences and eliminating them while paying attention to correct negative postural patterns.
Neuromuscular techniques provide a therapist with information regarding tissue tone, fibrosity, oedema and areas of soft tissue changes such as hypersensitivity, change in sensation or pain. Neuromuscular Therapy can move painlessly from investigative to treatment mode in an instant, if deemed appropriate.
In the hands of a qualified therapist, NMT may eliminate the cause of acute or chronic myofascial, muscular or osseous (bone) pain and discomfort. Through the application of neuromuscular techniques, which include soft tissue manipulations, intra-oral tissue release, myofascial release, positional release, muscle energy techniques, cranial manipulation and trigger point therapy, homoeostasis is restored between the nervous system, osseous system and soft tissue systems.
Neuromuscular therapy enhances the function of joints, muscles, and the general arthrokinematics of the body. NMT can improve healing by facilitating the return of appropriate core (lumbo-pelvic-hip) muscle function throughout the entire kinetic chain. A special focus is given to the treatment of trigger points, local ischemia, neural interferences, postural and biomechanical dysfunctions, nutritional factors and emotional wellbeing.
During the last several decades, neuromuscular therapy (NMT) has emerged as a significant methodology for assessing, treating and preventing soft tissue injuries and chronic pain. NMT, a series of manual treatment protocols based on the practitioner’s skill, anatomy knowledge and precise palpatory application, has found its home, not only in the treatment rooms of massage therapy, but also in occupational and physical therapy, nursing, Naturopathic, chiropractic, osteopathic and physical medicine clinics worldwide, as well as in many forward-looking Primary Care practices.
To learn more about Neuromuscular Therapy or to schedule an appointment, call Massage Solutions at 678-213-4266 or email us at info@massagesolutions4you.com.
Read more on the history of Neuromuscular Therapy, click here.
