Musculoskeletal therapy is a holistic manual therapy that is concerned with assessing and treating the various elements of the musculoskeletal system, utilising a number of techniques including joint mobilisation, tissue mobilisation, cupping, dry needling, stretching and trigger point therapy amongst others. The musculoskeletal system is responsible for the form and support of the body, and it enables us to have the ability to move while providing protection to our sensitive internal organs. It consists of our skeleton, muscles, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and joints – all of which work together to facilitate movement, balance and correct posture.
Musculoskeletal Therapy Benefits
A musculoskeletal condition is a general term for a wide range of conditions that cause pain and immobility, make daily activities more challenging than they're supposed to be and decrease the quality of life. By using treatment approaches grounded in scientific evidence, a trained musculoskeletal therapist can address chronic pain resulting from a variety of musculoskeletal disorders, such as those cited below, which could develop from repetitive movements or certain medical conditions.
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Joint pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Spinal pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Shoulder pain
- Whiplash
- Plantar fasciitis
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
- Sciatica
- Sports injuries
- TMJ disorders
- Myofascial pain syndrome
Musculoskeletal Therapy vs. Massage Therapy
Some may question if there is a substantive difference between musculoskeletal and massage therapy, but they are very different modalities with very different toolboxes. Musculoskeletal therapists will generally have an increased skill level in assessment and diagnosis, with access to a broader range of treatment options than their colleagues.
A massage therapist specialising in deep tissue massage applies firm pressure to the connective tissue to resolve painful muscle knots. A Swedish massage therapist uses light, gentle strokes to relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation. A sports massage therapist employs soft tissue techniques to remove fascia restrictions that cause pain and immobility. As you can see, massage therapy centres around relieving musculoskeletal pain, as opposed to musculoskeletal therapy which goes beyond providing pain relief. It's an effective treatment which not only addresses the root of pain and imbalance but also improves the body's posture.
Musculoskeletal Therapy vs. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic practitioners specialise in spinal analysis and manipulation. Although a chiropractic treatment can surely help address a musculoskeletal condition as it reduces pain and increases range of motion through spinal adjustment, it is a passive form of treatment that requires a series of sessions. Musculoskeletal therapy, on the other hand, comes with exercise programs alongside manual techniques to treat imbalances in the musculoskeletal system speedily. What's more, a health professional who specialises in this type of treatment modality guides their client in increasing postural awareness and moving mindfully to prevent health conditions that could compromise their musculoskeletal system.
Musculoskeletal Therapy vs. Occupational Therapy
People who are struggling with work, school or simple everyday tasks due to a musculoskeletal condition can find a glimmer of hope with an occupational therapist. This primary care practitioner can teach them how to adapt their movements to their situation, improve their motor skills and use assistive devices to make it easier for them to carry out their daily activities. However, an occupational therapist cannot eliminate pain, nor can it improve a person's range of movement the way a musculoskeletal therapist can.
As well as employing soft tissue therapy and other mobilisation techniques, a musculoskeletal therapist incorporates an exercise prescription into their client's customised treatment plan to help their body revive its natural alignment and functions.
Musculoskeletal Therapy Techniques
Musculoskeletal therapy uses a variety of techniques and modalities to effect relief and healing, with the objective of maintaining the functional alignment of the entire musculoskeletal system. This includes a number of myofascial release techniques, muscle energy techniques, neuromuscular techniques, cupping and stretching among others.
Musculoskeletal Therapy Consultation
An initial consultation with a musculoskeletal therapist will typically involve a full postural and biomechanical analysis of a patient. This includes tests that involve the muscles, nerves and joints, which can point to the root of the ailment. A treatment plan can then be developed for the patient, which may involve specific exercises aimed at developing the strength and resilience of muscles, as well as stretching and remedial massage.
All healthcare providers, whether in the field of complementary medicine or Western medicine, can deliver musculoskeletal therapy so long as they have completed a degree specialising in this field. In fact, there are many physical therapists, massage therapists, chiropractors and even Pilates practitioners who practise this modality. You may check out the Natural Therapy Pages' full listing of natural health professionals to find a qualified musculoskeletal therapist in your local area.
Originally published on Dec 22, 2010
