If you have been living in Coburg and the surrounding area, like the Merri Bek or Darebin councils, you probably notice how Coburg is a suburb full of movement. From people cycling along Merri Creek, walking around Coburg Lake, training at local gyms, playing community sports, or simply trying to stay active despite busy work and family commitments, movement is a big part of everyday life in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. As a Myotherapist based in Coburg, I see many different people who share one common goal: They want to move better, feel better, and get back to doing the activities they enjoy. And this can be due to recovering from an injury, managing ongoing pain, or improving physical performance. That’s where Myotherapy can play an important role in supporting your body and wellbeing. Why Active People Often Experience Injuries One of my mottos here at Melbourne Massage and Treatment Myotherapy and Lymphoedema Clinic in Coburg is: “Move More, Live Well”. But being an active person doesn’t mean you are never going to be in pain or experience some discomfort. Indeed, pain is a complex neurological response, and movement, in some way, is what is needed to alleviate the pain or change this neurological response. On the other hand, if your level of activity is not constant but sporadic- so after a long period of no load, you increase the load suddenly- that’s where the injuries happen. And here are some common presentations I see in my Coburg clinic that are related to overloaded movement: Calf strains and tightness Achilles tendon pain Hamstring injuries Shoulder and neck pain Lower back discomfort Hip and knee issues Overuse injuries from repetitive activities These problems can affect anyone. It could be someone preparing for a running event, a cyclist spending hours on the bike, someone returning to exercise after a break, or simply someone who spends most of their day sitting at a desk. Myotherapy Is More Than Just Massage One common misconception is that Myotherapy is simply a stronger form of massage. Well, let me tell you, it is not. Indeed, hands-on treatment is part of a Myotherapy treatment, and it is an essential component of creating trust between me, the therapist, and you, the patient, but what really is going to fix your pain, or reduce it the most, is movement under the right load. And that’s what really Myotherapy is. Massage, load, and Education about your wellbeing. My approach combines: Clinical assessment Hands-on treatment Movement analysis Exercise advice Education about your condition In fact, our goal is not just to temporarily reduce symptoms, but to understand why a problem may have developed and what we can do to improve your long-term movement. And of course, every person is different, which is why I don’t believe in using the same treatment approach for everyone. Helping Coburg Residents Stay Active If there is something that really attracted me to come back to Coburg to run my clinic, it is the variety of people I get to meet. Some clients come to me because they are dealing with an injury that is stopping them from doing what they love. Others come because they want to improve their mobility, strength, or recovery. For example: A runner may need help managing recurring calf tightness. A cyclist may need support with hip mobility and lower back discomfort. A gym enthusiast may need assistance returning safely after an injury. Someone working at a desk may need help with neck, shoulder, and posture-related discomfort. The treatment approach may be different for each person, but the goal remains the same: helping you move with confidence again. Recovery Requires More Than Rest Along with the educational protocol I put in place in my clinic here in Coburg, I explain to my clients when rest is needed and for how long it is needed. I dedicate a full blog to the inflammatory response. And understanding this concept allows you to regain confidence in your movement as early as possible. Because resting for too long may cause you to lose muscle mass and confidence in movement. Therefore, depending on your presentation, this may include: Improving mobility Building strength Gradually increasing load Learning better movement strategies Again, the body adapts to the demands we place on it. The challenge is finding the right progression, not just resting for too long or rushing to load more quickly. This is where Myotherapy, exercise prescription, and education can work together. Supporting the Coburg Community and Surrounding Suburbs Moving forward from what Myotherapy is and how it really works, being located in Coburg allows me to support clients not only from Coburg itself, but also from surrounding Melbourne northern suburbs including: Brunswick Pascoe Vale Preston Reservoir Fawkner Thornbury Essendon The clinic at 325A Moreland Road is easy to reach by car and public transport. Indeed, you have plenty of car parking along Haig Avenue next to the clinic or Moreland Road (with some parking limitations in terms of time) or a bus stop (BUS 510) which stops right in front of the clinic, or a walking-distance tram (6, 19, 58) and train stop (Moreland Station, Upfield Line). These options make it convenient for people looking for Myotherapy, Remedial Massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, and lymphoedema care in Melbourne’s north. My Approach: Move More, Live Well Why I started looking into Myotherapy as a form of treatment is because teh movement is a key component of this type of therapy. Indeed, Move More, Live Well, do really match the essence of this form of therapy. I don’t believe that someone has special powers or magical hands that can fix your pain. I do believe that the right therapist can have the right clinical reasoning to help you overcome your pain and show you the right movement underload that can help you overcome your pain, but also help you understand your body, improve your movement, and give you the tools to stay active. Again, whether you are recovering from an […]
Category Archives: Blog
Blog
Myotherapy for Coburg’s Active Community
If you have been living in Coburg and the surrounding area, like the Merri Bek [...]
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Myotherapy vs Remedial Massage in Coburg – Which Should You Choose?
If you live in Coburg or the surrounding area, you’ve probably come across both Myotherapy [...]
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Wry Neck (Torticollis): How To Fix It Once For All?
There is no worse way to start the day than with a wry neck. Wry [...]
Continue readingJul
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Why I Chose Coburg for My Myotherapy Clinic
I had been looking for a new space to relocate my Myotherapy Clinic, and when [...]
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Lipalgia Syndrome or Lipoedema? Why the Name Matters
Lipalgia Syndrome is a name for a condition that most often, and more commonly, we [...]
Continue readingJul
Aug
If you live in Coburg or the surrounding area, you’ve probably come across both Myotherapy and Remedial Massage. Have you ever wondered what the difference is? While those treatment modalities share some techniques, they have different goals. Therefore, choosing the right treatment depends on whether you’re dealing with pain, recovering from an injury, improving your movement, or simply looking to relax. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Coburg, I do offer both services and understanding the difference can help you get the most appropriate care for your needs. Quick Look at Remedial Massage and Myotherapy Differences Myotherapy Remedial Massage Pain & injuries Relaxation & recovery Assessment Massage Exercise prescription No rehabilitation program Long-term function Short-term muscle relief Acute & chronic conditions General muscle tightness Healthcare treatment Therapeutic massage What is Remedial Massage? Remedial Massage focuses on relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation. Although it can help reduce muscle soreness and stiffness, the primary aim is to help your body recover from everyday stress or physical activity rather than managing complex injuries. Remedial Massage is an excellent choice if you want to: Relax tight muscles Recover after exercise or sporting events Prepare muscles before competition Reduce general muscular tension Improve flexibility Support overall wellbeing Many active people also include regular Remedial Massage as part of their maintenance routine to help manage training loads. What is Myotherapy? Myotherapy is a treatment modality, evidence-based, offered by a healthcare professional who focuses on: Assessing, Treating, Managing musculoskeletal pain and movement dysfunction. As a Clinical Myotherapist in Melbourne, I also tend to specify that Myotherapy as per TAFE education and a Bachelor of Health Science is different. Goes without saying that someone who trained in a bachelor setting has better knowledge and clinical reasoning than someone who trained at TAFE level. Back to what Myotherapy is about, it is not only treating sore muscles, but it aims to identify why your pain or injury has developed. Then, treatment often includes a combination of hands-on techniques movement assessment exercise prescription education to help improve long-term outcomes. Myotherapy is suitable for people experiencing: Acute injuries Chronic pain Sporting injuries Neck and back pain Headaches related to muscle tension Tendinopathies Shoulder, hip, or knee pain Reduced mobility Muscle weakness following injury Indeed, the goal isn’t simply to reduce pain today, but the goals are: Short term: reduce the pain and possibly improve range of motion Long term: become stronger, and reduce the likelihood of the problem returning. The Main Difference The biggest difference between Remedial Massage and Myotherapy is the treatment goal. Remedial Massage essentially focuses on relieving muscle tightness and promoting recovery and relaxation through massage techniques. This is possible because while we massage a body part, we stimulate the nervous system and other body systems, which react with biological responses such as mild inflammation and relaxation. Myotherapy, on the other hand, focuses on understanding the cause of pain or movement limitations and creating a treatment plan that may include exercise, rehabilitation, and education alongside hands-on treatment. Therefore, if your goal is to overcome an injury, improve movement, or build strength, Myotherapy is generally the better option. If your goal is to unwind, recover after exercise, or enjoy a therapeutic massage, Remedial Massage may be exactly what you’re looking for. Now, Myotherapy May Be the Better Choice If You Have: Ongoing neck or back pain A recent sporting injury Tendon pain Joint stiffness Recurring muscle strains Pain affecting work or daily activities Weakness after an injury Goals of returning to sport or exercise safely Where treatment during a Myotherapy session may include: Soft tissue therapy Joint mobilisation Dry needling Trigger point therapy Exercise prescription Strength and rehabilitation programs Movement assessment Education about your condition So, to conclude about what Myotherapy is about, Myotherapy is to improve function, not just reduce symptoms. Remedial Massage May Be the Better Choice If You Want To: Relax after a busy week Reduce muscle soreness after training Prepare for a sporting event Recover following a marathon or competition Reduce general muscular tightness Enjoy regular maintenance treatments Therefore, when we look at Remedial Massage, we are looking at a treatment modality that helps your muscles feel looser and more comfortable while supporting recovery from physical activity. Can You Have Both? Of course you can. As mentioned earlier, while we do deliver a Myotherapy session, we will still use hands-on treatment, the same treatment option that we would use for Remedial Massage. And indeed, many of my clients here at Melbourne Massage and Treatment use both services throughout the year. For example: You may see a Myotherapist while recovering from a shoulder injury. Once you’re pain-free, you may continue with regular Remedial Massage to help maintain muscle health and recover from training. The two treatments complement each other well depending on your goals. Which Treatment Does Giovanni Recommend? At Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Coburg, I recommend treatment based on your goal, not only on my opinion. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, recurring injuries, reduced strength, or difficulty moving, Myotherapy is usually the most appropriate starting point. If you’re feeling generally tight after work, training, or simply want to help your body recover and relax, Remedial Massage is often the better choice. And if you are unsure which service is right for you, please do not hesitate to ask Giovanni what would work best for you. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your symptoms, assess your movement, and recommend the treatment that best suits your needs. My goal, as an Allied Health practitioner, is to help my clients move more and live well. And this can start with a massage, and move on too exercises and fitness class. Myotherapy vs Remedial Massage Coburg Cost and Prices Cost and prices of Myotherapy or Remedial Massage at Melbourne Massage and Treatment, for simplification, are the same. Find below a table with the prices: Myotherapy vs Remedial Massage Coburg – Price Initial consultation – 60 mins – $125 Return consultation – 45 mins – $115 […]
Jul
There is no worse way to start the day than with a wry neck. Wry neck is a common term used to describe a painful neck that limits the way you can move. Medically speaking, we call the same presentation acute torticollis. At my Myotherapy clinic in Coburg, Melbourne Massage and Treatment, I get to hear clients often telling me: “This has happened on and off for years.” And this is the first piece of the clinical history that tells me we’re probably not dealing with a simple muscle spasm, and that’s where we start looking for why the neck keeps becoming irritated in the first place. Wry Neck Is Often Acute on Chronic The first misconception we need to clear away is that wry neck comes out of nowhere. The reality of the fact is that many people have developed underlying dysfunction over months or years. Therefore, the neck has been compensating until one day something relatively small, sleeping awkwardly, reaching for something, reversing the car or even sneezing, is enough to trigger the painful episode. The acute pain is simply the last straw that broke the camel’s back. So the million-dollar question is: Why did your neck become vulnerable in the first place? That’s where an initial consultation is important, and that’s why I spend my time investigating during an assessment. A Previous Whiplash Injury Could Still Be Affecting You A common overlooked cause for wry neck that I get to see here at my clinic is a previous whiplash injury. Indeed, while someone may recover fine from this type of incident, others develop subtle changes in how their neck moves and how the muscles coordinate movement. So yes, it can be either a physical strain or irritation of the ligaments, or even neurodegeneration at the muscle level. That’s why, even years later, the body may continue protecting certain joints while overloading others. Research by Woodhouse and Vasseljen (2008) has shown that people with chronic whiplash often demonstrate altered cervical motor control, reduced movement quality and persistent dysfunction long after the original injury. That’s why, if you’ve ever had a rear-end collision, even if it happened ten years ago, even if it was due to a contact sport injury, it’s worth mentioning during your assessment, as it is an important piece of information. Hypermobility Can Also Play a Role Another presentation that I come across in my clinic, for people who suffer from wry neck, is hypermobility. Indeed, being flexible isn’t always an advantage. This is because if some joints move excessively, your muscles have to work much harder to provide stability. Over time, these muscles become overworked and fatigued, especially around the neck and upper back, which is an area where muscles already work hard most of the time, as they have to ensure we can stay straight while we stand or sit. When stability can’t keep up with mobility, the body often responds by developing muscle guarding. That’s when the neck suddenly “locks.” On the other hand, the lack of stability also creates an overload of joints, which may get easily irritated, and then initiate the pain response. Your Neck Doesn’t Work Alone Another important thing to be aware of is that we should stop focusing only on where the pain is, as the source of the problem. In fact, the cervical spine is part of a much larger movement system. So, poor movement through the upper back, reduced thoracic mobility, rib restrictions, shoulder dysfunction or altered control through the lower spine can all change the workload placed on the neck. And this is a long time game, not something that happen in one night of bad sleep. A way to conceptualise this is: If one link in a chain doesn’t move well, another link has to move more than it should, and eventually that overloaded area becomes painful. That’s why my assessment as a myotherapist doesn’t stop at your neck. I look at how your entire spine works together. The goal is to improve the balance between mobility, where mobility is needed, and stability, where stability is required. And this can only be done and maintained via exercises. Can a Better Pillow Fix a Wry Neck? I did already dedicate a full blog post about the pillow topic, but it is worth it to touch base about it even here, as this is probably one of the most common questions I get when talking about wry neck. A supportive pillow can certainly help reduce stress on your neck while you sleep; however, a pillow doesn’t: Change how your joints move. Improve muscular control. Restore stability. Correct movement patterns that have developed over the years. Therefore, think of a good pillow as something that is improving the environment rather than fixing the cause. If the underlying issue is poor movement control or spinal dysfunction, changing pillows alone usually won’t stop the episodes from returning, and it can end up being an expensive search. Your Workstation Might Be Causing the Problem Another issue that I get to see mostly with office workers is for those who work with multiple screens, like two or even three computer screens. This setup becomes a problem when the main screen isn’t positioned directly in front of you, and you end up spending eight or more hours each day with your head slightly rotated toward one side or the other. Now, try to think about what that means for your joints and muscles on that side. Until you repeat that position every day for months or years. The muscles on one side of the neck become overloaded because they are constantly contracted, while the muscles on the other side are constantly stretched. One of the simplest changes you can make is ensuring your primary monitor sits directly in front of your body, or if that’s not an option, then make sure to swap your screen software-wise. So you end up having even days looking at right, and uneven days, looking to the […]
Jul
I had been looking for a new space to relocate my Myotherapy Clinic, and when I found one in Coburg, I knew it was the right choice. As I started telling my client and friends about my relocation plan from Fitzroy North to Coburg, the question they ask is: “Why Coburg?” And the answer is actually quite simple. In many ways, it feels like coming home. A New Chapter, in a Familiar Place For who has been following me for a while, you may know that in the last couple of years my clinic, Melbourne Massage and Treatment, wsa based in Fitzroy North for the last couple of years. But my professional journey didn’t begin there. Long before opening the Fitzroy North clinic, I had already been practising in Coburg for 3 years. And I was practising at home. I came to know the area well, and over the years, I built relationships with many local clients and healthcare professionals. Returning to Coburg wasn’t about moving somewhere new; it was about returning to a community where I already felt connected, and where I still live, actually. More Space Means Better Care Another bigger reason behind the move was the opportunity to create a clinic that better reflects the way I like to work. Myotherapy isn’t about rushing people through appointments, and is more about yes, hands-on treatment, but exercises play a crucial role in your recovery journey, Whether you’re coming in with persistent neck pain, recovering from a sporting injury, managing lymphoedema, or seeking Manual Lymphatic Drainage, treatment works best when both practitioner and client have a calm, comfortable environment. The new clinic at 325A Moreland Road, Coburg, gives me exactly that. Indeed, there is a dedicated waiting room as soon as you walk in. From there, you can access the studio, which is presented with a dedicated fitness class space, and again, a third space, which is only for massage. This all set up, gives me the opportunity to keep expanding the quality treatment for Melbourne Massage and Treatment while maintaining the one-on-one care that has always been at the centre of my practice. Easier to Reach Another advantage of the Coburg location is accessibility. Many of my clients travel from the surrounding suburbs, including: Pascoe Vale Brunswick Preston Reservoir Fawkner Thornbury Essendon Kew Fawkner Being located on Moreland Road makes the clinic easy to reach, regardless of whether you’re driving or using public transport. In fact, parking is straightforward, with unlimited parking on Haig Ave, the side street of the clinic. At the old location in Fitzroy North, I know, parking was a bit of a challenge. After all, arriving stressed because you’ve spent twenty minutes looking for a parking spot isn’t the ideal way to start a treatment session. And if you don’t drive, and you want to opt for public transport, you can easily reach the clinic via tram, bus or train. The trams that stop close by are 6,19 and 58, and the train stop close by is Moreland Station. The bus 510 stops right in front of the clinic. Staying Close to Melbourne’s Northern Community Throughout my career, I’ve enjoyed working with people from all walks of life; indeed, I learned many treatment techniques, which would give me the opportunity to get to know more people and more conditions. Among those presentations, we find: Office workers dealing with chronic neck and shoulder pain Athletes wanting to improve recovery People living with lymphoedema who need ongoing management Clients recovering from surgery People simply want to move more comfortably again Coburg sits right in the heart of Melbourne’s northern suburbs, making it an ideal location to continue supporting this diverse community. More Than Just a Change of Address Again, this relocation is not just about changing the clinic’s postcode. It was about creating a space that allows Melbourne Massage and Treatment to continue growing while staying true to the philosophy I’ve always believed in: “Step by step – Move More, Live Well”. I don’t believe treatment should be rushed, and if you know me, you know that well. I don’t believe every client fits into the same treatment plan; indeed, everyone needs a different level of care and attention to detail for their best performance and well-being. Lastly, I don’t believe pain should simply be masked without understanding why it’s there; therefore, I always share with my client my clinical reasoning and the “why” I take a certain approach to their presentation. How is all of this implemented in my Myotherapy Coburg Clinic? Well, the answer is easy: every appointment starts with listening to your concern. Only then do we decide together on the most appropriate treatment approach, because the treatment that works best for you, may differ from the one that works best for someone else. Looking Forward This move represents an exciting new chapter for Melbourne Massage and Treatment. I’m grateful to every client who has supported the clinic over the years, whether you’ve been seeing me since my earlier days in Coburg, joined me in Fitzroy North, or are discovering the clinic for the very first time. If you’re looking for a Myotherapist in Coburg, or you’re seeking treatment for lymphoedema, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, remedial massage or musculoskeletal pain, I’d be delighted to welcome you to the new clinic. I look forward to helping you move better, feel better, and get back to doing the things that matter most. FAQ – Myotherapy and Lymphoedema Clinic Coburg
Jul
Lipalgia Syndrome is a name for a condition that most often, and more commonly, we all call Lipoedema. But why so? And why Lipalgia Syndrome would be more accurate than Lipoedema? My name is Giovanni, and I am a Myotherapy and Lymphoedema therapist who runs Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Coburg. Here at my clinic, I get to work often with clients who have been diagnosed with Lipoedema or clients who are suspicious of having Lipoedema. That said, it can happen that the client themself, are confusing one condition (Lipaglia Syndrome or Lipoedema) for something else, and that’s also because they see oedema in their limb, and associate that with having Lipoedema. But we now know that oedema is not a symptom of Lipoedema unless we are looking at Lipo-Lymphoedema, a really advanced stage of the syndrome, which is not as common as we think. Let’s break down the names: Lipoedema and Lipalgia Syndrome The term Lipoedema combines the Greek word lipo (fat) with oedema (swelling). Unfortunately, as mentioned above, this terminology can be misleading. This happens because by reading the name, we think we have to see an oedema in this presentation, where an oedema, actually, should not be. Because an oedema is caused by a dysfunctional lymphatic system, which is not what we look at when talking about Lipoedema. In fact, Lipoedema is actually a chronic, painful disorder of abnormal adipose (fat) tissue. This is why an increasing number of clinicians have suggested that the condition would be more accurately described as Lipalgia Syndrome, meaning Lip (fat) algia (pain), therefore, painful fat. Then, all this said, to clarify what’s going on with the lymphatic system, there are several investigations that look into the exact role of the lymphatic system in lipoedema, and by now, it is well established that lipoedema is a different condition from lymphoedema. This is because the lymphatic system is generally intact in the early and moderate stages of lipoedema, although secondary lymphatic overload can develop in advanced disease, leading to lipolymphoedema. This distinction is important because the diagnosis, because the treatment approach is different for lipoedema than for lipolymphoedema. Pain Is the Hallmark Symptom for Lipalgia Syndrome One symptom that can be used to mark the difference between Lipalgia Syndrome (or Lipoedema) and other conditions is pain. Patients commonly describe their legs, hips, buttocks or arms as: aching heavy tender to touch painful even with light pressure bruising easily feeling constantly sore without a clear injury In fact, unlike obesity, where enlarged fat tissue is usually painless, Lipalgia presents with diffuse, persistent pain throughout the affected tissues. If someone presents with some of the above symptoms and with a body that mimics the look of Lipoedema, but they don’t experience any pain, well, they don’t have Lipoedema. And again, that’s why we should call it Lipalgia Syndrome, because what we have to look for, is not oedema, but pain, as main symptom. That said, this pain often limits exercise tolerance and significantly affects quality of life. Current research consistently identifies pain as one of the defining characteristics that separate lipoedema from obesity and many other fat disorders. Therefore, from a clinical perspective, this symptom (pain) is essential to diagnose someone with Lipalgia Syndrome (Lipoedema). On the other hand, if a patient presents with enlarged legs or arms without pain, it is worth carefully considering whether the diagnosis is truly Lipalgia Syndrome (Lipoedema). Other conditions may be more likely, including: obesity with disproportionate fat distribution lipohypertrophy lymphoedema chronic venous disorders mixed presentations involving more than one condition Therefore, don’t try to self-diagnose with social media or a simple Google or AI search, as the reality of facts is way more complicated. Why the Name “Lipalgia” Makes More Sense The use and understanding of language influence how diseases are understood. In fact, the word lipoedema understandably directs attention towards swelling and fluid accumulation, when in fact the most disabling symptom for many patients is pain. That’s where the term Lipalgia shifts the focus towards what patients actually experience every day: chronic painful adipose tissue tenderness heaviness impaired movement reduced quality of life Although Lipalgia has not yet become the internationally accepted medical terminology, many clinicians believe it better reflects the clinical presentation and may help reduce confusion with lymphoedema. What Is Lipohypertrophy? One of the conditions that is often mistaken for Lipoedema is Lipohypertrophy, because both conditions involve a symmetrical increase in subcutaneous fat, particularly in the legs and sometimes the arms. The key difference is that Lipohypertrophy is generally not painful. So yes, those conditions are really similar, and the people with lipohypertrophy usually have enlarged limbs but do not experience the diffuse tenderness, aching, easy bruising and persistent discomfort that characterise Lipalgia. For this reason, recognising the presence or absence of pain is one of the most valuable aspects of the clinical assessment. And again, an accurate diagnosis is important because management strategies differ depending on the underlying condition. Assessment at Melbourne Massage and Treatment At Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Coburg, I provide comprehensive assessments (not diagnoses) for people experiencing leg or arm enlargement, chronic pain, lymphatic conditions and soft tissue disorders. What I refer to as assessment, and not diagnosis, is the fact that I don’t have the clinical possibility to diagnose anyone with anything, but I can point you in the direction of further investigations to get to understand what is happening to your body. Further investigation can involve talking to your GP about specific tests or referral to a specialist, who can assist you in understanding what your body is going through. Every assessment aims to distinguish between conditions such as Lipalgia (Lipoedema), Lipohypertrophy, obesity-related fat accumulation and lymphoedema so that treatment can be tailored to your individual presentation. Early recognition, education and appropriate management can significantly improve comfort, mobility and long-term outcomes. On my end, I can still offer MLD to overcome pain and where present oedema, and Fitness Class to help you and your body get stronger […]
After two wonderful years in Fitzroy North, I am now ready to announce that Melbourne Massage and Treatment is officially relocating back to Coburg from 1 July 2026. This move marks an exciting new chapter for my clinic, moving into a larger, dedicated treatment space at: 325A Moreland Road, Coburg, VIC, 3058 The new location gives Melbourne Massage and Treatment, Myotherapy and Lymphoedema clinic, the opportunity to grow independently in a space designed specifically for client care, wellbeing, and long-term community connection. A New Space In Coburg for Your Well-Being While Fitzroy North has been an important part of my clinic’s journey, the move back to Coburg comes with exciting opportunities. To start with, the location is a shop-front, and so it provides more visibility. There are still plenty of options to reach the clinic via public transport, and greater potential for the clinic to continue growing. Having a standalone clinic also means clients will now be visiting a dedicated wellness space rather than a room inside a GP clinic. This allows for a calmer and more personalised treatment environment focused entirely on massage, myotherapy, recovery, and movement. At this stage, Melbourne Massage and Treatment will continue operating as a single-practitioner clinic, yes, still only me, but ensuring the same personalised care and attention clients have always received. And you are a Melbourne Massage and Treatment client, you know the effort I put in my work. Thank You to the Fitzroy North Community The support from the Fitzroy North community over the past two years has been genuinely appreciated. Every returning client, referral, conversation, and recommendation has helped Melbourne Massage and Treatment grow. Although relocating back to Coburg was ultimately the right decision for the clinic’s future, the connection with the Fitzroy North community will always remain an important part of the business journey. And luckily, the distance between the old and new locations is only a few minutes by car, or a short public transport journey. Services Available at the New Coburg Clinic All current services will continue to be offered at the new Coburg location, including: Clinical Myotherapy Remedial Massage Fitness Classes Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Lymphoedema Management Lipoedema Management Thai Massage Thai Yoga Importantly, there will be no price increases to any services following the relocation. Clinic Opening Hours In the new location in Coburg, Melbourne Massage and Treatment will maintain the regular operating hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm Saturday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm As I currently work by myself, bookings are highly recommended. However, walk-ins are still welcome whenever availability allows. Clients can check live availability through the online booking system. Parking and Public Transport Now, of course, how can you get there? Well, getting to the new clinic is simple, whether driving or using public transport. Parking 1-hour parking is available directly in front of the clinic: Monday to Friday: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm There is also plenty of unrestricted parking available on Haig Avenue, located directly next to the clinic. Public Transport Options The clinic is well connected by bus, tram, and train services: Bus 510 – Shamrock St/Moreland Rd stop directly in front of the clinic Tram 19 – Stop 28 (Moreland Rd/Sydney Rd), approximately 10 minutes’ walk Tram 6 – Stop 133 (Moreland Station/Moreland Rd), approximately 10 minutes’ walk Tram 58 – Stop 40 (Moreland Rd/Melville Rd), approximately 11 minutes’ walk Moreland Station – Approximately 10 minutes’ walk Accessibility Information The new clinic space in Coburg is larger and more comfortable; however, please note that the premises currently do not have disabled toilet access. Clients with accessibility concerns are encouraged to get in touch before attending so arrangements and suitability can be discussed. Looking Ahead Returning to Coburg feels like coming home for Melbourne Massage and Treatment. The move represents a fresh start, greater independence, and an opportunity to continue building a trusted local clinic focused on high-quality treatment and personalised care. From clinical myotherapy and remedial massage to lymphatic care and Thai massage, Melbourne Massage and Treatment looks forward to welcoming both returning and new clients to the new Coburg location from 1 July 2026. FAQ
Jul
Here at Melbourne Massage and Treatment, Myotherapy Clinic in Coburg, when treating patients who love running, I am often asked this question: “Do I need to stop running because of my knee pain?” Whether you’re training for an event, running recreationally along the Merry Creek, or simply trying to stay active, knee pain can be frustrating and concerning. But let’s start with some good news: in most cases, stopping running forever is not the answer, and is not something to ever consider. As a Myotherapist who is treating runners and active individuals in Coburg and Melbourne’s inner north, I rarely recommend that someone give up running permanently. What I would personally suggest, on the other hand, is that for a short period of time, if needed, you may need to reduce the running load. Specifically in the acute or subacute stages of recovery. However, that’s very different from being told you’ll never run again. Therefore, what I offer as a Myotherapist is to help you understand why the knee pain developed in the first place and create a plan to return to running safely and confidently. Knee Pain Doesn’t Always Mean You Need to Stop Running Many people assume that knee pain automatically means there is damage occurring inside the joint. But we now know that when we look at pain, the reality is often more complex. So, let’s try to simplify why knee pain can be a thing. Knee pain can develop when the tissues around the knee are asked to tolerate more load than they are currently able to handle. Here are a few examples: A sudden increase in running volume Returning to running too quickly after time off Weakness in the legs Poor recovery habits Reduced mobility through the hips or ankles Changes in training intensity At our Coburg myotherapy clinic, we regularly assess runners experiencing knee pain and often find that the issue extends beyond the knee itself. The Knee Is Part of a Bigger System The knee joint sits between the hip and ankle, meaning both joints have a significant influence on how the knee functions during running. Following the understanding of the mobility and stability joints, we then need to look at the leg mechanics before assuming the only issue is at the knee. Therefore, when I assess a runner with knee pain, I look at the entire movement chain, including: Hip mobility and strength Pelvic stability Ankle mobility Foot mechanics Running technique Training load Recovery strategies Addressing these factors is often the key to reducing symptoms and improving long-term knee health. Improving Ankle and Hip Mobility to Stop Knee Pain Mobility plays an important role in running performance and injury prevention. Indeed, when mobility is lacking, a stable joint that follows in the chain would try to act as a mobile joint. Obviously, this is not a fun thing. Ankle Mobility Limited ankle movement, especially dorsiflexion, can increase stress through the knee during running, particularly when climbing hills, accelerating, or changing direction. This can happen because if your ankle lacks movement in dorsiflexion, the knee may compensate by dropping medially. So, improving ankle mobility may help distribute forces more effectively throughout the lower limb. Hip Mobility Tight hip flexors and reduced hip rotation can affect running mechanics and increase the workload placed on the knee. Regular mobility exercises can help improve movement quality and reduce unnecessary strain. As part of our running injury treatment approach in Coburg, mobility assessments are often a key component of rehabilitation. Big Toe Yes, you did read that, your big toe. Big Toe is another mobile joint, and it is big because it sits in the middle of the body, and when walking, running or sprinting, it is the primary body mover. Indeed, for walking, the big toe is better to passively flex up to 45°, running 65°, sprinting 85°. Stability Helps Protect the Knee Once mobility is sorted out, or it may not even be the background issue, it is time to look at stability. For stability, we refer to the body’s needs and ability to control movement under load. Many runners with knee pain demonstrate reduced stability in the hips and pelvis, which can increase stress on the knee. To improve stability, we look into exercises like: Quads focus exercises – Knee extension on the bench Hamstring focus exercises – Knee flexion on bench Step-downs Split squats Single-leg deadlifts Glute strengthening exercises – specific glute medius Improving stability can enhance running efficiency while reducing unnecessary strain on the knee joint. Strength Training for Better Knee Health As the knee is a stable joint, one of the most effective ways to support healthy knees is through targeted strength training. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we often discuss strength as the foundation of long-term injury prevention. Quadriceps Strength The quadriceps help absorb force during running and are essential for controlling knee movement. Exercises such as knee extension, wall sit to start with and then high bar squats, step-ups, lunges, and leg press variations can improve lower limb resilience. Hamstring Strength Strong hamstrings contribute to overall knee stability, as part of the body posterior chain muscle group, and help manage forces during the running cycle. Exercises may include: Romanian deadlifts Hamstring curls Single-leg deadlifts Nordic hamstring exercises Calf Strength The calves absorb significant loads during running, yet they are often neglected. And again, from the posterior muscle chain group are ideal muscles for knee stability, as they support the knee from the distal porion to the proximal area. Exercises ideal for your calves are: Single-leg calf raises, bent-knee calf raises (extra focus on the soleus muscle), and progressive plyometric exercises can all be beneficial. Managing Running Load Is Essential Another cause of knee pain while running is dictated by the running load. In fact, sometimes the issue is simply doing too much too soon, or increasing the load too fast, without allowing the tissue to adapt to the new load. Here is a short summary of what an […]
Jun
When treating someone for neck pain, a common question I get asked is: “Should I change my pillow?” or “I slept badly, my pillow is not good”. In fact, there is a common belief that a pillow or a bad night’s sleep is the cause of constant neck pain. While pillow comfort matters, clinical experience in myotherapy in Melbourne shows that pillows are rarely the root cause of ongoing neck pain. At a clinical level, neck pain is usually driven by: movement dysfunction poor spinal cervical stability previous injury history and reduced muscular control Therefore, a good pillow can support symptoms, but it does not fix the underlying issues that drive your pain. Coburg Myotherapy Insight: What Actually Causes Neck Pain? At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, a myotherapy clinic in Coburg, I consistently see neck pain linked to five key factors. 1. Spine Mobility and Stability Dysfunction The neck’s vertebrae are part of a full kinetic chain involving the thoracic spine, shoulders, and rib cage. Under this aspect, indeed, we should look into the lack of thoracic mobility which may cause the stable portion of your cervical (C3-C7) to seek that mobility capacity. But as we well know, a stable joint can’t act as a mobile, and vice versa. In more detail, poor spinal mechanics lead to: muscle overload in the neck joint irritation tension during rest and sleep And about the pillow, it is an object that cannot restore spinal movement or control. Isn’t it? 2. Whiplash History and Incomplete Rehabilitation Other patients with chronic neck pain may have a history of whiplash that was never fully rehabilitated. Indeed, a whiplash accident, as a result of a car crash or even during a contact sport incident, can lead to chronic neck pain, especially if not rehabilitated correctly. This happens because during a whiplash, the cervical joints get put under extreme force and can lead to a torn ligament or laxation. However, without structured rehab, long-term changes in: deep neck flexor control proprioception postural endurance can persist for years, or even show up after years of post-injury. So again, no pillow can change these symptoms or help you recover from such an injury. 3. TMJ Dysfunction and Jaw Tension Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is another underlying cause of neck pain. By following the kinetic joint chain we discussed earlier, we see that the TMJ is the next joint in the chain, after the cervical one. Therefore, Jaw clenching and TMJ irritation can: increase suboccipital muscle tension contribute to forward head posture amplify cervical joint stress That’s where you may wake up with more neck pain than during the daytime. The clantching can be heavily responsible for that. This is why neck pain is often worse under stress or during sleep. 4. Hypermobility and Joint Instability Following the concept of a torn ligament, as per a whiplash incidence, joint hypermobility is clearly another underlying issue for neck pain. This happens because there is a lack of stability and control in those cervical ligaments. This leads to: reliance on passive ligament support early muscle fatigue poor tolerance of sustained sleeping positions A “supportive pillow” alone may not solve instability and can sometimes reinforce dependency on external support rather than active control. 5. Neck Strength and Motor Control (8–12 Week Rehab Window) In my experience, this is the big issue. Most people don’t even think about the strength of their neck or upper shoulder muscles, and this is where things can go really wrong. Indeed, one of the most effective long-term treatments for neck pain is a structured strengthening program that targets: deep cervical flexors scapular stabilisers postural endurance muscles As per many exercise programs that intend to strengthen the body structure, we look at 8–12 weeks of progressive exercise-based rehabilitation. This is why many patients searching for neck pain treatment in Melbourne benefit more from rehab than passive support strategies. What the Research Says About Pillows and Neck Pain To support with evidence, why a pillow is not going to change in the long term, your neck pain, we can look at a systematic review from Pang J. et al. (2021), which found: Some pillow designs may reduce symptoms But long-term structural or functional improvements are limited and inconsistent Therefore, pillows may improve comfort, but they do not fix the underlying cause of neck pain. And yes, the pillow consistency can make a difference, but, again, it does not fix the neck pain, nor would it cause neck pain. Melbourne Myotherapy Approach: What Actually Works At Melbourne Massage and Treatment – Myotherapy Clinic in Coburg, I focus on evidence-based management of neck pain. Indeed, my approach to a client who presents with neck pain is structured as follows: Detailed analysis of clinical history – including previous history of injury and past/current sport activities Clinical assessment – active and passive range of motion, and neurological test where/when needed Outline your short-term and long-term treatment – what you want to achieve in today’s session and in the upcoming weeks/months, and what you are ready to do about it (exercise-wise) Treatment plan outline – what I believe could be a tailored treatment plan given the results of the above findings, including your short/long-term goals In all of these, Remedial Massage plays a crucial initial role to relax the nervous system, reduce initial pain and discomfort, promote healing and movement, but even techniques like mobilisation are ideal for treating neck pain and improving the initial outcome. But again, hands-on treatment is only the first step of the journey, and along with other myotherapy sessions that follow the initial consultation, exercises have to be the main focus. Exercises for the neck, for the shoulders and for your back. In summary, here is a dot point list of what a treatment plan aims for: cervical + thoracic mobility restoration deep neck flexor strengthening scapular control TMJ and jaw tension management (if needed) graded load tolerance programs These interventions address the true drivers of pain rather than just […]
Jun
Hip pain can be frustrating, and not all hip pains are the same. I personally experienced Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) pain myself, and it is not fun. Indeed, this type of pain can stop you from training, affect your sleep, make sitting uncomfortable, and eventually impact your quality of life. Over the years, I’ve seen many active people spend months treating the symptoms without understanding the actual cause. If you’re experiencing groin pain, hip stiffness, pinching during squats, or discomfort after prolonged sitting, FAI may be worth investigating. What Is Femoroacetabular Impingement? In simple terms, Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) occurs when there is abnormal contact between the femoral head (the ball) and the acetabulum (the socket) of the hip joint. As with any tissue that gets overstimulated, this can result in irritation and inflammation, leading to damage to the labrum, cartilage, and surrounding tissues over time. In some cases, if left unmanaged, it may contribute to the development of early hip osteoarthritis. The symptoms that most people come up with when experiencing FAI are: Deep groin pain Hip stiffness Clicking Catching Locking sensations Pain when sitting for extended periods. Those symptoms are typically aggravated by activities involving Deep hip flexion Squatting Running Kicking Cycling Getting in and out of a car. The Different Types of FAI As we have already seen in the antirotated and retroverted hip presentations, we are all different, and even a Femoroacetabular Impingement can present differently. Let’s have a look at the different types of Femoroacetabular Impingement. Cam Impingement Cam impingement occurs when the femoral head is not perfectly round. During hip movement, particularly flexion and internal rotation, the abnormal shape creates increased pressure against the edge of the socket. This is the most common form seen in young athletic populations. Pincer Impingement Pincer impingement occurs when the acetabulum provides excessive coverage over the femoral head. The socket effectively “overhangs,” increasing the likelihood of compression during movement. Mixed Impingement Mixed FAI is the most common presentation clinically. In this situation, both cam and pincer characteristics are present simultaneously, resulting in a combination of abnormal contact from both the femur and the acetabulum. Who Is More Likely to Develop FAI? The common ground for an FAI presentation includes young and middle-aged active individuals. A higher prevalence is seen among athletes participating in sports that involve: Repetitive hip loading during adolescence Football Hockey Soccer Martial arts Dance Running. This evidence shows that sports activities play a crucial role in FAI presentation, but it is also important to consider that genetic factors could be involved. On the other hand, as per any physical structural presentation, not all the people who present with a FAI may experience pain. Many people have structural changes visible on imaging but remain completely symptom-free. Is a Scan Worth It? This is one of the most common questions I get asked when someone presents with some sort of ongoing pain or even acute discomfort. My answer is usually: it depends on your symptoms and how long they have been lingering around. Why I don’t recommend a scan as a first thing to go for (unless I am suspicious of something that I can’t treat directly) is because a scan may find an abnormality in the body, but that doesn’t mean that what we see is actually the source of the pain. In fact, many people may have a FAI presentation and have no symptoms at all. Therefore, a scan alone should never determine treatment decisions. Sp, a diagnosis of FAI should combine: Clinical history Physical examination Symptom presentation Imaging findings So yes, a scan should support the diagnosis, not create it, or it would be really chaotic to define why someone is experiencing pain, and create a treatment plan for it. If You Need Imaging, Which Scan Is Best? Step 1: X-Ray For most people, a standard pelvic and hip X-ray is the first and most appropriate imaging investigation. X-rays are excellent for identifying the bony shapes associated with cam and pincer impingement and are considered the primary imaging modality in the assessment of FAI. The downside of X-rays is that they involve radiation, so if possible, avoid them. Step 2: MRI If symptoms are there for a prolonged period of time, and exercise therapy is failing to restore functionality, an MRI becomes extremely valuable. MRI can assess: Labral tears Cartilage damage Joint degeneration Other soft tissue causes of hip pain Many hip specialists consider MRI the cornerstone investigation when assessing intra-articular damage associated with FAI, given the high definition of the image and results. Step 3: CT Scan CT scanning is generally reserved for surgical planning or when a very detailed understanding of the hip’s bony anatomy is required. CT provides excellent visualisation of bone structure, but it is not usually necessary as an initial investigation. So, When Should You Get a Scan? In my clinical opinion, based on current evidence, imaging becomes worthwhile when: Hip or groin pain has persisted for more than 6–12 weeks Symptoms continue despite appropriate rehabilitation The range of motion is progressively decreasing Mechanical symptoms such as catching, locking or giving way are present, and are painful Surgery is being considered The diagnosis remains unclear after clinical assessment If your symptoms are mild and improving with treatment and exercise, I would not bother to get an image taken. Exercises are a great way to maintain hip pain-free and keep your body going. Exercise Protocol for FAI This is where we need to put some focus: Exercises! So, first things first, when someone presents with a FAI, we want to take away or modify the habit that we can, in order to reduce discomfort and hip pain. An example could be removing squat from an exercise program or reducing the time spent in a seated position. Next, we would start looking into your mobility capacity at the ankle level, especially if you are someone who runs as part of a sports activity. And all of this is part of a protocol […]
Jun
“Oh, I can’t squat that deep, ” is what I sometimes get told by my clients when I train them for exercises. What do I think about it? I think they are right, maybe they can’t, and that’s ok. And why can’t they? Well, we are all different, and not one squat is equal to the other one. And possibly the answer is behind the fact that they may have a femoral anteversion. Indeed, femoral anteversion can affect how your hips rotate, how your feet naturally position themselves during a squat, and even how comfortable certain exercises feel. We Are Not Built the Same. And That’s Fine! Most recently, I was working with a client who presented with Lipoedema and, consequently, hypermobility, and when we got to work on her squat we notice that deep squat for her was not a thing (even thought she is hypermobile). Her PT, on the other hand, was asking her to just keep trying, gave her an app-video to train with, and told her that the squat had one way to be. Obviously this is not the case. We all squat differently, and there is nothign wrong with it. Than, after a short investigation, we realise that she can go deeper in the squat, if she use few tricks and tips. This is because her hips are antroverted. Moving forward from this single case scenario, we also have to remember that our movement is influenced by: Muscle strength Mobility Motor control Previous injuries – (actually, she also had severely injured her L ankle when she was a teen, and her dorsiflexion is compromised on that side) Joint structure Bone morphology The last point is often overlooked. In fact, the shape and orientation of the femur can significantly influence how the hip moves. This is where femoral anteversion and its counterpart, femoral retroversion, become important. Therefore, understanding these anatomical differences can help explain why you squat comfortably with feet narrow, standing and facing forward, while another naturally prefers a wider stance with their toes turned outward. What Is Femoral Anteversion? Femoral anteversion refers to the forward orientation of the femoral neck relative to the shaft of the femur. More simply, this means that the head and neck of the thigh bone are rotated more anteriorly than the norm. In fact, everyone is born with some degree of femoral anteversion. What can happen is that during growth and development, the amount gradually decreases, but the final angle varies considerably between individuals. Research by Scorletti M et al. (2020) has shown that femoral versions are present on a spectrum, where there is significant variation even among healthy adults. That’s where the word “normal” has no application. There is no “normal hip”. What indeed is normal is the variability of human anatomy. Regarding the characteristics of people with greater femoral anteversion, typically, we find: Increased hip internal rotation Reduced hip external rotation A tendency toward a more forward-facing foot position Greater comfort in certain squat positions Different movement strategies compared to those with retroverted hips And therefore, let’s underline the fact that femoral anteversion is not a pathology, but it is simply an anatomical variation. What Is Femoral Retroversion? Now that we have looked at femoral anteversion, it is time to look at the opposite presentation. In this case, the Femoral retroversion occurs when the femoral neck is oriented more posteriorly relative to the femoral shaft. These individuals often display: Increased hip external rotation Reduced hip internal rotation A natural toe-out posture Preference for wider squat stances Reduced comfort with feet pointing straight ahead None of those presentations is better than the other one, or more “normal”. They are simply different anatomical variations of the hip biomechanics. The results of one or the other one are that based on the presentation you show up with, there are going to be certain movements that for you are easier or less easy. The real issue stands when people attempt to force a movement pattern that doesn’t match their anatomy, especially if they told: “this is how you squat/move”. How Femoral Anteversion Influences Your Squat Now that we have a better idea of what is what, in terms of hip anatomy variation, we can look at how femoral anteversion affects your squatting. As the hips flex during a squat, the femoral neck moves within the acetabulum (hip socket). The available space for movement depends partly on the shape and orientation of the bones involved. Remember, the femoral hip joint is a socket/ball joint, so a sphere shape (femoral head) rolling inside a concave socket. So, if you are one of the individuals who present with greater femoral anteversion, you will find it more comfortable doing movements where: Feet are relatively straight Your stance is narrow to moderate Knees track naturally over the feet Don’t need an excessive toe-out stand Indeed, by contrast, individuals with femoral retroversion often prefer: A wider stance Greater foot turnout More externally rotated hip positions And again, this is why two healthy people can perform completely different-looking squats and both be moving optimally for their anatomy. Trying to force everybody into the same squat position ignores the reality of individual biomechanics and would put one or another individual in a place of lack of confidence or body negativity. Why Foot Position Matters So, now that we see both anteversion and retroversion hip presentation, it’s time to understand why the feet position can make a difference when doing a squat, and where it is needed for a deeper squat and where it is optional. Indeed, as mentioned above, for someone with a retroverted hip, having feet straight and worst, even if too close to each other, and delivering a squat, is not a thing. This is dictated by the fact that the foot direction, such as straight or laterally directed, is given by the rotation that we apply at the hip joint. A person with significant femoral anteversion may naturally feel strongest with minimal toe-out, whereas someone with retroversion […]