Holistic Balance

{Holistic Balance}{363 Burwood Rd}{Hawthorn}{3122}{VIC}{Australia}{(039) 041-3232}
363 Burwood Rd 3122 Hawthorn, VIC
Phone: (039) 041-3232
November, 2024 | Holistic Balance

Relieve Tight Shoulders: A Myotherapist’s Guide to Trapezius Health

Author: Jerry Song
The trapezius muscle is one of the most prominent and multifunctional muscles in the human body. It plays a vital role in movement, posture, and stability, but it’s also prone to tension and pain. Whether due to prolonged desk work, heavy lifting, or stress, the trapezius often develops trigger points, leading to discomfort that can impact daily activities.
Anatomy of the Trapezius Muscle
The trapezius is a large, flat, diamond-shaped muscle that spans across the upper back and neck. It is divided into three distinct regions:
  1. Upper trapezius: Originates at the base of the skull and runs down to the shoulders.
  2. Middle trapezius: Spans from the upper thoracic spine to the shoulder blades.
  3. Lower trapezius: Extends from the mid-thoracic spine to the lower shoulder blades.
Primary Functions:
  • Upper trapezius: Elevates the shoulders (e.g., shrugging) and assists in neck movement.
  • Middle trapezius: Retracts the scapula (pulls shoulder blades together).
  • Lower trapezius: Depresses and stabilises the scapula.
The trapezius muscle is essential for maintaining good posture, facilitating head and shoulder movement, and stabilising the upper body during physical activity.
Common Trigger Points in the Trapezius
Trigger points are hyper-irritable knots within the muscle fibers that cause localised pain and may refer discomfort to other areas. The trapezius is one of the most common muscles to develop trigger points.
Typical Trigger Point Locations:
  1. Upper trapezius: Often found near the base of the skull or at the midpoint between the neck and shoulder.
  2. Middle trapezius: Near the spine, along the shoulder blades.
  3. Lower trapezius: Along the lower edge of the shoulder blade and thoracic spine.
Referred Pain Patterns:
  • Pain may radiate to the neck, head (often mistaken for tension headaches), shoulders, or upper back.
  • Upper trapezius trigger points frequently cause pain at the base of the skull or in the temples, mimicking a migraine.
Certain demographics and activities make individuals more prone to trapezius trigger points:
  1. Office Workers and Students
    • Long hours of sitting with poor posture or forward head position.
    • Stress and tension, leading to elevated shoulders and clenched muscles.
  2. Athletes
    • Sports involving repetitive shoulder movements, such as swimming, tennis, or weightlifting, can overwork the trapezius.
  3. Manual Labourers
    • Lifting heavy objects or prolonged physical strain can cause overuse of the trapezius.
  4. Chronic Stress Sufferers
    • Emotional stress often manifests physically, with the trapezius holding tension as a protective response.
  5. Older Adults
    • Age-related changes, like reduced muscle elasticity and weakened posture, increase susceptibility.
Myotherapy offers a range of techniques to address trapezius dysfunction, reduce trigger points, and restore proper muscle function. Commonly used treatments include:
  1. Trigger Point Therapy
    • Direct pressure is applied to trigger points to deactivate them and relieve pain.
  2. Dry Needling
    • Thin needles are inserted into trigger points to release muscle tension and improve circulation, reducing pain and promoting healing.
  3. Myofascial Release
    • Gentle, sustained pressure is used to stretch the fascia (connective tissue) around the trapezius, reducing tightness and restoring mobility.
  4. Massage Therapy
    • Techniques like effleurage, petrissage, and deep tissue massage help relax the muscle, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow.
  5. Stretching and Mobility Exercises
    • Myotherapists provide tailored stretches to lengthen the trapezius and improve its flexibility.
    • Example: Neck tilts or shoulder shrugs can help relieve tightness in the upper trapezius.
  6. Postural Assessment and Correction
    • A myotherapist evaluates posture to identify contributing factors, such as forward head posture or rounded shoulders, and recommends ergonomic adjustments.
  7. Heat and Cold Therapy
    • Heat application increases blood flow and relaxes the muscle, while cold therapy reduces inflammation and acute pain.
  8. Strengthening Exercises
    • Weakness in the trapezius can cause overcompensation by other muscles, leading to tension. Strengthening the lower and middle trapezius can help rebalance the area.
Tips for Preventing Trapezius Tension
Incorporating the following habits into your daily routine can reduce the risk of developing trapezius-related issues:
  • Practice Good Posture: Keep your shoulders relaxed, neck neutral, and head aligned with your spine.
  • Take Frequent Breaks: If you work at a desk, stand up and stretch every 30-60 minutes.
  • Manage Stress: Regular relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can prevent tension buildup.
  • Stay Active: Engage in exercises that strengthen your back, shoulders, and core to support your posture.
  • Stretch Regularly: Incorporate neck and shoulder stretches into your routine to maintain flexibility.
The trapezius muscle plays a crucial role in maintaining posture, facilitating movement, and supporting overall upper-body function. However, it’s also highly prone to tension and trigger points, especially in today’s sedentary, high-stress lifestyles. While we’ve focused on the trapezius in this article, it’s important to note that in most cases, pain arises from multiple contributing factors, including other muscles, joints, and overall movement patterns. For this reason, it’s always best to seek a proper assessment from an experienced therapist to identify the root cause of the issue and develop an effective treatment and self-care plan.
If you or someone you know are dealing with a trapezius condition, musculoskeletal pain, or even myofascial trigger points, book an appointment to see Jerry now for an initial consultation so we can assess your condition and come up with an appropriate and tailored treatment plan to manage your pain.  Simply click this booking link for the myotherapy initial consultation with our experienced myotherapists.

Maximize Your Private Health Insurance: Claim Rebates on Myotherapy and Remedial Massage in Melbourne Today!

Author: Jerry Song
As we approach the end of the year, it’s important to make the most of your private health insurance benefits, especially when it comes to Myotherapy and Remedial Massage treatments. For many people, private health insurance policies cover these therapies, but there’s one catch: your annual allowance doesn’t roll over into the new year. So if you haven’t yet used all of your allocated rebate for Myotherapy or Remedial Massage, now is the time to book in and take advantage of it.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how private health insurance works for Myotherapy and Remedial Massage, why it’s worth booking in before December 31st, and how these treatments can benefit your overall well-being.
Why Myotherapy and Remedial Massage?
Myotherapy and Remedial Massage aren’t just indulgent – they’re powerful therapeutic treatments that can address a range of musculoskeletal issues, alleviate chronic pain, relieve muscle tension, and improve overall movement and function. Myotherapy focuses on assessment and treatment of pain and dysfunction, using techniques like dry needling, myofascial cupping, joint mobilisation, and myofascial release. Remedial massage, on the other hand, works on muscle tightness, relaxation, and improved circulation.
For people in Melbourne with active lifestyles, long hours at work, or chronic tension, these treatments offer relief and support better movement and physical function, both short-term and long-term.
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How Does Private Health Insurance Cover Myotherapy and Remedial Massage?
Most private health insurance providers in Australia offer extras cover that includes benefits for allied health services like Myotherapy and Remedial Massage. The specific rebate amount depends on your insurance provider, the level of extras cover you’ve selected, and the annual limits for these services. Many providers in Victoria offer partial coverage for each treatment, with a set annual cap.
Here’s what you need to know:
  • Claiming Rebate: Our clinic is equipped with HICAPS, and our Myotherapists are accredited and registered with most private health insurance providers, which allows for on-the-spot claiming, meaning you only pay the gap fee on the day of your appointment.
  • Annual Allowance: Each calendar year, you’re given a specific allowance for services like Myotherapy and Remedial Massage. This allowance does not carry over to the next year, so any unused amount will expire on December 31st.
  • Variety of Providers: Coverage for Myotherapy and Remedial Massage is offered by major private health funds, including Bupa, Medibank, HCF, NIB, and more. It’s advisable to check with your provider to confirm the rebate amount per session and your remaining annual balance.
Why Use Your Myotherapy and Remedial Massage Benefits Before Year-End?
As December 31st approaches, it’s a good idea to book in those Myotherapy and Remedial Massage sessions you’ve been putting off. Here are some reasons why:
  1. Maximise Your Annual Allowance: If you haven’t yet used your annual rebate, booking a few sessions before the end of the year lets you take full advantage of your extras cover. This could mean hundreds of dollars in savings on treatments that support your health and well-being.
  2. Ease Year-End Stress and Physical Tension: The holiday season brings extra stress, physical strain, and long hours sitting or standing. Myotherapy and Remedial Massage can relieve muscle tension, support relaxation, and boost your resilience through the busiest time of the year.
  3. Prepare for the New Year: Start the new year with a fresh, pain-free body by addressing any lingering tension or discomfort. Using your benefits before December 31st means you’ll have a clean slate for additional sessions next year, maximising your health and insurance value.
How to Check Your Health Fund Balance and Book In
  1. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Many health insurers offer online member portals where you can check your remaining benefits for the year. Alternatively, you can call your provider directly to inquire about your current balance.
  2. Choose an Accredited Clinic: Ensure that the Myotherapist or Remedial Massage therapist you choose is accredited with your health fund. Most reputable clinics in Melbourne are registered with major health funds and can process claims instantly with HICAPS.
  3. Book Your Appointment: With many people realising the benefits of booking before year-end, clinic availability can fill up quickly. Book now to secure a convenient appointment slot and avoid the rush.
Making the Most of Your Myotherapy and Remedial Massage Sessions
To ensure you get the maximum benefit from your treatments, consider the following tips:
  • Discuss Your Needs: Talk to your therapist about any specific areas of tension, pain, or discomfort. A personalised treatment approach will provide the best results.
  • Stay Hydrated: Myotherapy and Remedial Massage can aid in releasing muscle tension and toxins from the body. Drinking water before and after your session helps with recovery and keeps your muscles hydrated.
  • Follow Up with Home Care: Many therapists offer advice on stretches, strengthening exercises, or posture corrections that can help you maintain the benefits of your session. Consistent home care can make a big difference in managing musculoskeletal issues over the long term.
Common Questions About Using Private Health Insurance for Myotherapy and Remedial Massage
  1. Can I claim for both Myotherapy and Remedial Massage?
    • Yes, most health funds allow claims for both treatments, as long as they are covered under your extras policy. However, each service may have a separate or shared annual limit, so it’s best to verify with your provider.
  2. What if I’ve already reached my annual limit?
    • Unfortunately, once your annual limit is reached, further claims won’t receive a rebate until the allowance resets in the new year. However, you may wish to book ahead for January to ensure your first appointments of the year are covered.
  3. How much can I expect to get back?
    • The rebate amount varies depending on your health fund and cover level. Rebates can range from around 50% to 85% of the service cost, so checking with your provider gives a clearer idea of your specific benefits.
If you or someone you know would like to make an appointment for Myotherapy or Remedial Massage to make the most of your rebates, book an appointment to see Jerry now for an initial consultation so we can assess your condition and come up with an appropriate and tailored treatment plan to manage your pain.  Simply click this booking link for the Myotherapy initial consultation with our experienced myotherapists.

Differences between -itis vs -otis in musculoskeletal conditions

Author: Jerry Song
Medical terminology often utilises suffixes to describe specific pathological processes, and two commonly encountered suffixes in musculoskeletal and systemic conditions are “-itis” and “-osis.” Understanding the distinctions between these terms is critical for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management. Despite their importance, confusion persists regarding their differentiation, leading to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment approaches. Understanding these fundamental differences is key for distinguishing between acute inflammatory conditions and chronic degenerative conditions in both diagnosis and treatment.
Defining “-itis” and “-osis”
  1. “-itis” refers to inflammation, which is the body’s natural immune response to injury, infection, or irritation. Inflammation is typically characterised by the classic signs of pain, heat, redness, swelling, and loss of function. The inflammatory process is a protective mechanism intended to remove harmful stimuli and initiate the healing process.
  2. “-osis” refers to degeneration or chronic, non-inflammatory changes in tissue, often associated with wear-and-tear, ageing, or prolonged overuse. Unlike “-itis,” “-osis” does not involve the acute inflammatory markers but is instead characterised by tissue degeneration, thickening, or structural alteration. This degeneration leads to a gradual decline in function and strength over time.
“-itis” (Inflammation)
The aetiology of “-itis” typically involves an acute insult to the body, which triggers an inflammatory response. Common causes include:
  • Injury or trauma: Acute injuries like strains, sprains, or fractures may cause localised inflammation.
  • Infection: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can result in inflammatory responses, as seen in conditions such as pneumonia or cellulitis.
  • Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are marked by inappropriate immune responses that attack the body’s own tissues, resulting in inflammation.
  • Allergic reactions or irritants: Exposure to allergens or irritants can cause an inflammatory response, as seen in allergic rhinitis or contact dermatitis.
“-osis” (Degeneration)
The aetiology of “-osis” generally involves chronic wear-and-tear, degeneration, or insufficient healing responses over time. Key factors include:
  • Ageing: Degenerative changes are common as the body ages, with tissues losing their ability to repair themselves as effectively. Osteoarthritis and tendinosis are classic examples of age-related degeneration.
  • Overuse or repetitive strain: Repeated microtrauma to a particular tissue without adequate recovery time can lead to degeneration. Tendinosis is often seen in athletes or workers performing repetitive motions.
  • Genetic predisposition: Some degenerative conditions, such as osteoarthritis, may have a genetic component that accelerates the degradation of tissues like cartilage.
  • Metabolic or systemic disorders: Conditions like diabetes can affect tissue health and lead to degeneration, as impaired circulation or inflammation may exacerbate structural breakdown.
Key Differences Between “-itis” and “-osis”
Aspect
“-itis” (Inflammation)
“-osis” (Degeneration)
Nature of Condition
Acute or chronic inflammation
Chronic tissue degeneration, non-inflammatory
Symptoms
Pain, swelling, redness, heat, loss of function
Chronic pain, stiffness, weakness, reduced function
Onset
Sudden, often associated with injury or infection
Gradual, related to ageing or overuse
Cellular Process
Inflammatory response (immune cells, cytokines)
Degeneration (fibrosis, cell death, tissue thickening)
Tissue Changes
Edema, inflammatory infiltrates
Thickened, fibrotic, or weakened tissues
Common Diagnostic Mistakes
Misdiagnosing a condition as “-itis” when it is actually “-osis” (and vice versa) can lead to ineffective or even harmful treatment. Below are common diagnostic mistakes associated with these conditions:
  1. Treating degenerative conditions with anti-inflammatories: In cases of “-osis,” where there is minimal or no active inflammation, prescribing anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs or corticosteroids may not address the underlying degeneration. For example, tendinosis, a degenerative condition of the tendons, may be mistakenly treated as tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons), delaying appropriate therapy like loading exercises and rehabilitation.
  2. Confusing acute inflammation with chronic degeneration: The signs of acute inflammation (pain, swelling, heat) may sometimes mask the underlying degenerative changes. For instance, a patient with osteoarthritis (a degenerative joint condition) may experience occasional inflammatory flare-ups, leading clinicians to focus solely on inflammation while neglecting long-term management of degeneration.
  3. Misidentifying pain patterns: Pain from degenerative conditions like “-osis” tends to be more gradual and dull, often increasing with activity. In contrast, inflammatory pain associated with “-itis” is usually more acute and intense. Failure to correctly identify the type of pain can lead to incorrect diagnoses and treatment approaches.
Examples of “-itis” Conditions
  1. Tendinitis: Tendinitis is the acute inflammation of a tendon, often caused by sudden injury or repetitive strain. The inflammation is typically localised, and symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness over the tendon. Common forms include Achilles tendinitis (affecting the Achilles tendon) and rotator cuff tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder).
  2. Bursitis: Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones and tendons. Overuse, injury, or infection can cause bursitis. Commonly affected areas include the shoulder, elbow (olecranon bursitis), and hip.
  3. Appendicitis: This is the inflammation of the appendix, often caused by obstruction or infection. It is an acute medical condition that requires prompt surgical intervention.
Examples of “-osis” Conditions
  1. Tendinosis: Tendinosis is a chronic degenerative condition of the tendon that occurs due to overuse or ageing. It involves the breakdown of collagen in the tendon without significant inflammation. Unlike tendinitis, tendinosis is a long-term problem characterised by a dull ache, stiffness, and reduced strength. Achilles tendinosis is a common example.
  2. Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterised by the gradual breakdown of cartilage, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. OA is commonly seen in older adults and is considered a classic degenerative condition rather than an inflammatory one.
  3. Spondylosis: Spondylosis refers to degenerative changes in the spine, particularly the intervertebral discs and facet joints. It is a common cause of back pain in older adults and is associated with stiffness, reduced flexibility, and changes in the spinal structure.
If you or someone you know are dealing with the conditions above, musculoskeletal pain, or even myofascial trigger points, book an appointment to see Jerry now for an initial consultation so we can assess your condition and come up with an appropriate and tailored treatment plan to manage your pain.  Simply click this booking link for the myotherapy initial consultation with our experienced myotherapists.

Post Melbourne Marathon recovery aid

Author: Jerry Song
The Melbourne Marathon is one of the most prestigious running events in Australia, drawing thousands of participants each year. Whether you’re an elite runner aiming for a personal best or a weekend warrior finishing your first marathon, crossing the finish line is a huge achievement. However, after the exhilaration of completing the race fades, your body may be feeling the effects of the physical toll. This is where Myotherapy and Remedial Massage come into play as crucial tools for post-race recovery.
Running 42.2 kilometers (or even the shorter events) places significant stress on the muscles, joints, and connective tissues. Recovery is essential not just for relieving pain and discomfort but also for ensuring long-term mobility and preventing injury. This article will discuss how Myotherapy and Remedial Massage can assist in post-race recovery and why every runner should consider incorporating these therapies into their recovery plan.
Understanding the Impact of a Marathon on the Body
Completing a marathon puts immense strain on the body, particularly the lower limbs. During a race, runners are at risk of the following:
  • Muscle fatigue: Prolonged running leads to muscle fatigue, particularly in the legs, hips, and core. The repetitive impact can cause microtears in muscle fibers, leading to post-race soreness, commonly known as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
  • Joint stress: The knee, hip, and ankle joints endure repeated pounding over the course of the marathon, which can cause inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
  • Tightness and muscle imbalances: After a long-distance race, muscles such as the hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves may become tight, leading to imbalances that can cause discomfort or increase the risk of injury.
  • Reduced flexibility and mobility: Long runs can lead to stiffness, affecting range of motion in key areas like the hips, knees, and ankles.
Given these physical demands, the post-race recovery process is critical in helping the body heal and preventing longer-term issues. This is where Myotherapy and Remedial Massage can play an essential role.
What Is Myotherapy and Remedial Massage?
Myotherapy is a specialised form of manual therapy that focuses on the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It combines deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and muscle stretching with other advanced techniques such as dry needling, myofascial cupping, joint mobilisation, and corrective exercises.
Remedial massage focuses on relieving muscle tension and addressing muscular imbalances caused by overuse, injury, or poor posture. It involves targeted, deep-tissue massage techniques that can help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and accelerate recovery. Both therapies are highly effective in addressing post-race muscle fatigue, soreness, and stiffness.
How Myotherapy and Remedial Massage Aid Post-Marathon Recovery
1. Reducing Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a common post-marathon complaint that usually sets in 24 to 48 hours after the race. Myotherapy and remedial massage can help reduce the severity of DOMS by increasing blood flow to the affected areas, promoting the removal of metabolic waste products such as lactic acid, and providing the necessary nutrients for tissue repair.
By reducing inflammation and alleviating the muscle tightness that contributes to DOMS, runners can experience less post-race discomfort and recover more quickly.
2. Promoting Faster Healing and Tissue Repair
Myotherapy and remedial massage stimulate circulation, which increases the supply of oxygen and nutrients to damaged muscles. This enhanced blood flow promotes tissue repair and accelerates the healing process, reducing the amount of time it takes for sore muscles to recover after a race.
Myotherapy, in particular, can target deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, releasing adhesions or “knots” that may have developed during the run. By releasing these restrictions, runners can avoid the development of chronic muscular tension.
3. Improving Joint Mobility and Flexibility
Stiffness in the joints, particularly in the knees, hips, and ankles, is common after a marathon due to the repetitive impact of running. Myotherapy and remedial massage work to restore mobility in these joints by addressing muscle imbalances, tightness, and restrictions in the surrounding tissues. Gentle joint mobilisation techniques used in myotherapy can further enhance range of motion, making it easier to move freely and reducing the risk of post-race injuries.
By restoring normal muscle function and range of motion, these therapies help prevent compensatory movement patterns that could lead to further strain or injury.
4. Relieving Muscle Tightness and Imbalances
After running for extended periods, certain muscles may become tight or overworked, while others become weakened or underutilised. This imbalance can lead to altered movement patterns and increase the risk of injury. Myotherapy and remedial massage target these imbalances by releasing tight muscles and strengthening weaker areas.
Trigger point therapy, a technique often used in both myotherapy and remedial massage, targets specific areas of muscle tension or “knots” that can cause referred pain. Releasing these trigger points can relieve tightness and restore balance to the musculoskeletal system.
5. Preventing Injury and Supporting Long-Term Recovery
Recovery is not just about feeling better in the short term; it’s also about preventing future injuries. Muscles and joints that have been subjected to the repetitive impact of a marathon are at risk of injury if they are not properly cared for during the recovery phase.
Myotherapy and remedial massage can help identify and address areas of potential weakness or imbalance that may lead to injuries such as tendinitis, IT band syndrome, or plantar fasciitis. By addressing these issues early, athletes can avoid downtime and continue training more effectively.
Key Techniques Used in Myotherapy and Remedial Massage for Runners
Both myotherapy and remedial massage incorporate various techniques to aid in post-race recovery. Some of the key methods include:
  • Deep Tissue Massage: Focuses on releasing deep muscle tension and breaking down adhesions, allowing for better muscle function and mobility.
  • Trigger Point Therapy: Targets specific points of tension in the muscles that can cause referred pain and tightness, releasing them to restore muscle balance.
  • Dry Needling: A technique used in myotherapy to release tight muscle bands and reduce pain by inserting fine needles into specific trigger points. This helps reduce inflammation and promote muscle relaxation.
  • Myofascial cupping: Myofascial cupping involves the use of suction cups to create negative pressure on the skin, lifting and separating the underlying tissues. Loosening tight fascia and muscle adhesions can restore normal tissue mobility and reduce pain.
  • Myofascial Release: Helps to release tension in the connective tissue (fascia) surrounding the muscles, reducing stiffness and improving mobility.
  • Joint Mobilisation: Gently moves joints through their natural range of motion to restore mobility, especially in the hips, knees,
    and ankles.
 
When to Get Myotherapy or Remedial Massage Post-Marathon
The timing of post-race treatment is essential for effective recovery. It is generally recommended to wait at least 24–48 hours after the marathon before undergoing deep tissue or intensive massage therapy to allow the initial inflammation and swelling to subside. Light recovery massages can be beneficial immediately after the race to improve circulation and relax the muscles. After a few days, deeper tissue work and myotherapy can be highly effective in addressing muscle tightness, imbalances, and soreness.
If you or someone you know are dealing with post-race soreness and tightness, musculoskeletal pain, or even myofascial trigger points, book an appointment to see Jerry now for an initial consultation so we can assess your condition and come up with an appropriate and tailored treatment plan to manage your pain.  Simply click this booking link for the myotherapy initial consultation with our experienced myotherapists.

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