Neuromuscular massage therapy (NMT), also known as trigger point myotherapy, utilizes regional protocols to completely assess the body in a step-by-step manner. Taking its roots from science, neuromuscular therapy focuses on the underlying causes that may be directly influencing pain in a certain region. NMT is a treatment that integrates seamlessly with other practices like chiropractic care or mainstream medicine, and it is often directly correlated with physical therapy.
Our Denver massage therapist, Sarah Monreal, studied neuromuscular therapy at the Colorado School of Healing Arts, where she earned her degree in Neuromuscular Massage Therapy. Sarah is a focus driven therapist who specializes in isolating problem areas and their underlying causes to help the body heal properly.
How Does Neuromuscular Therapy Work?
Sarah notes that neuromuscular therapy is not your typical, relaxing, downtown Denver massage. It is an extremely focused treatment that focuses on areas of muscle spasm to relieve chronic stiffness and pain.
When a muscle spasms, it is often very painful. This is because the muscle tissue is ischemic, or not receiving enough blood flow. This lack of blood also means a lack of oxygen which causes the muscle to produce lactic acid. This presence of lactic acid is what causes your muscles to be sore following physical activities.
Neuromuscular therapy often uses a tool called a t-bar. The t-bar is used to isolate trigger points and treat tight or painful areas. It is a very versatile tool that helps the massage therapist reach the root of your pain and treat it right at its source.
Is Neuromuscular Therapy Right For You?
Neuromuscular therapy is a specialty in Denver massage therapy, so it is not a practice that you can find at just any massage therapy business. It is best for patients who are suffering from chronic pain that may be caused by more serious disfunctions, like nerve damage. Additionally, neuromuscular massage therapy can be used to treat and prevent sports injuries.
When you receive neuromuscular therapy, it is a highly communicative experience. With this deep, focused work, it is important for your massage therapist to know how each movement is effecting you. As with any other massage, it should never cross your pain threshold or cause you severe discomfort. During this treatment, you will work with your massage therapist to best treat the underlying causes of your pain, injuries, or stiffness.
What Can Neuromuscular Therapy Treat?
Neuromuscular massage therapy can treat a wide array of chronic pain conditions. It has also been shown to be beneficial in injury recovery and post-surgical care. The many issues NMT can address include:
Ischemia
Myofascial trigger points
Neural entrapment
Nerve compression
NMT can also play a key role in gait analysis and postural assessment to address pain factors at their source.
What To Expect After Neuromuscular Therapy
Many patients describe neuromuscular therapy as a “good kind of pain.” It helps to relieve the pressure of spasming muscles, which can be slightly uncomfortable as your massage therapist works through the tension. Following neuromuscular therapy, you may experience some soreness, but overall you will find that your muscles are significantly more relaxed and flexible.
Schedule an appointment with our downtown Denver neuromuscular massage therapist today.