Fallen arches, or Flat Feet, are often misunderstood and can be a source of concern for many. However, as a Clinical Myotherapist, I want to reassure you that flat feet are not inherently problematic. In fact, they can be pretty standard and, in many cases, don’t require any treatment at all. Let’s learn why. Understanding Flat Feet (FF) When the feet’ arch presents as flat, what is occurring is a flat foot, resulting in the entire sole of the foot making contact with the ground. What you may not have noticed yet is that this presentation can be triggered by being on your feet, as in standing on it, and not by lying down or in a seated position with the feet off the ground. This is what we would call structural FF. What are Structural Flat Feet? Structural FF also known as rigid FF , involve an anatomical abnormality where the arch does not form properly. This “malformation” could be caused by genetic factors or developmental issues. What the arch would look like is lower than usual or absent entirely, which is often a lifelong condition. Now, despite their appearance, structurally flat feet are less likely to lead to pain or discomfort. The body, indeed, as it is a functional bio-machine, would easily adapt well to this anatomical variation, and many people with structural flat feet can lead active and healthy lives without any special interventions. Different is the anatomical presentation for functional flat feet, and let’s see why. Functional Flat Feet Functional FF on the other hand, result from how the foot functions rather than an inherent structural issue. In this case, the foot arch may appear flat when standing or walking due to excessive strain or an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that support the arch. When the foot is not bearing weight, the arch may appear normal. Potentially, you could also have one flat foot and one that isn’t when having a functional presentation. This is a common one for those who suffer from structural scoliosis. The main reasons why you may present with functional FF is due to muscle Imbalance, within the foot and ankle. This might be due to overuse, poor posture, or repetitive stress. Other reasons include conditions such as overpronation or excessive weight. Addressing these underlying issues can often alleviate the problem. What can be done for Functional Flat Feet? Changing in foot wear, could be an option. Based on the activity that you are doing on a daily basis life, certain types of footwear may help more than others. Orthotics, which are custom or over-the-counter arch supports, can provide temporary relief and improve function, but these often are over-estimated tools that get prescribed at random. Exercises: Strengthening exercises for the feet and lower legs can help improve muscle balance and support the arch, reduce the pain and improve motor function. In some cases, as explained in this study by Sanchez-Rodriguez et al. (2020), exercises can change the shape of the feet for the better if the intervention is done at an early age; in others, it can help maintain the feet pain-free. When Should You Worry? Most people with flat feet experience no symptoms, and if that’s the case, you do not need to worry about changing the presentation, as it could lead to pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing pain, on the other hand, is worth it to consult an health care practitioner, that can be a podiatrist, or book an appointment at Melbourne Massage and Treatment, where we are going to evaluate if the pain is due to the flat feet it self, or to other conditions such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, or other pathologies. The Bigger Picture It’s essential to remember that FF are just one of many variations of normal foot anatomy. They do not necessarily indicate a health problem or affect your overall well-being. For most individuals, flat feet are simply a characteristic of their body and do not require any special treatment. In conclusion, whether you have structural or functional flat feet, it’s essential to focus on how you feel and function rather than the appearance of your feet. In many cases, flat feet are perfectly normal and do not pose any significant health risks.
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Aug
At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we specialise in providing tailored remedial massage therapies designed to alleviate chronic pain. These therapies are meticulously designed to target the root causes of pain, fostering relief and recovery through specialised techniques. Our expert therapists are committed to assisting individuals in reclaiming their comfort and mobility, paving the way for a healthier, more active lifestyle. Key Takeaways: Tailored Approach: Each treatment is customised to address specific pain areas, enhancing effectiveness. Professional Expertise: Our therapists are highly trained in a variety of techniques to offer optimal relief. Holistic Benefits: Beyond pain relief, enjoy improved mobility and reduced stress. The Power of Remedial Massage Remedial massage is not just about relaxation; it’s a potent therapeutic tool for chronic pain management. By manipulating the soft tissues of the body, remedial massage helps in breaking down knots and improving blood circulation. This process not only alleviates pain but also enhances the healing process of the muscles and tissues. For individuals with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back pain, a regular remedial massage can be a cornerstone of effective management. How Remedial Massage Works Pain Relief: Through techniques such as kneading and pressure, remedial massage relieves muscular tension and pain. Improves Circulation: Enhanced blood flow aids in faster recovery of sore, overworked muscles. Increases Mobility: Regular sessions help in restoring flexibility and range of motion. Addressing Chronic Pain Conditions with Remedial Massage Remedial massage not only provides immediate relief but also long-term benefits to those suffering from chronic pain conditions. By focusing on specific areas of tension and imbalance within the muscular system, remedial therapy can significantly alleviate the symptoms associated with chronic musculoskeletal conditions. For individuals dealing with repetitive strain injuries or postural problems, remedial massage provides essential relief that is both healing and preventive. By increasing tissue elasticity and fluidity, the therapy ensures less tension in the muscles, which is often the root cause of ongoing pain and stiffness. Individualised Treatment Plans Our approach at Melbourne Massage and Treatment is deeply rooted in understanding the unique conditions and needs of each client. During the initial consultation, our therapists perform a thorough assessment to determine the most effective treatment strategy. This personalised plan is aimed at not only addressing the pain but also at promoting recovery and preventing future issues. Each session is adapted to progress with the client’s recovery, ensuring the most beneficial outcome. Techniques and Therapies Remedial massage incorporates a variety of techniques, each chosen for its ability to target different issues: Deep Tissue Massage: Focuses on deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue, helpful in releasing chronic muscle tension. Myofascial Release: Targets the fascia, the connective tissue around muscles, alleviating tension and restoring mobility. Trigger Point Therapy: Aims at specific areas of tight muscles that cause pain in other parts of the body, often described as ‘knots’. Benefits Beyond Pain Relief The benefits of remedial massage extend beyond the direct treatment of pain. Regular sessions contribute to: Enhanced Recovery: Speeding up the recovery process from injuries and surgeries. Improved Posture: Regular massage helps in correcting posture and muscle imbalances. Stress Reduction: The relaxation aspect of massage helps reduce stress levels, which is often a contributor to chronic pain. Real Client Success Stories At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we’ve seen remarkable transformations in our clients’ health. For instance, a client with chronic back pain, who had tried various treatments without significant improvement, found relief after a series of targeted remedial massage sessions. This individual story is just one of many that exemplify the healing potential of dedicated remedial massage treatment. Integrating Remedial Massage into Your Health Regimen Incorporating remedial massage into your regular health care routine can profoundly affect your overall well-being. It’s recommended for anyone suffering from chronic pain to consider setting up a routine with our skilled therapists. This not only helps in managing pain but also enhances general health and prevents the recurrence of injuries. Expert Care at Melbourne Massage and Treatment Our team of therapists at Melbourne Massage and Treatment is not only skilled in a variety of massage techniques but also in assessing the needs of our clients. They continually update their skills and knowledge to include the latest in remedial massage research and techniques. This commitment ensures that our clients receive the highest standard of care currently available in the field of massage therapy. Understanding Chronic Pain Management Chronic pain is a complex condition that affects every aspect of an individual’s life. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we believe in a multidisciplinary approach to pain management. Remedial massage is a cornerstone of this approach, but it is most effective when combined with other treatments and lifestyle adjustments. Our therapists often work in conjunction with physiotherapists, chiropractors, and doctors to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of the client’s health. Lifestyle and Remedial Massage Incorporating lifestyle changes alongside regular remedial massage sessions can dramatically improve outcomes for individuals with chronic pain. Simple adjustments like improving ergonomic setups at work, maintaining a balanced diet, and regular physical activity can complement the effects of massage therapy. Our therapists provide guidance on these aspects, offering a holistic approach to managing chronic pain. Education as a Tool for Empowerment Knowledge is power when it comes to managing chronic pain. Our therapists ensure that clients are educated about their conditions and the mechanics of pain, which empowers them to make informed decisions about their health. This education includes understanding how various massage techniques work to alleviate pain and how they can actively participate in their recovery process. The Role of Regular Assessment Regular assessments are crucial to the success of any treatment plan. By consistently evaluating a client’s progress, therapists can adjust treatments as needed, ensuring that each session is as effective as possible. These assessments look at pain levels, functionality, and overall mobility, adjusting the course of treatment to match the changing needs of the client. Conclusion At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we understand the debilitating nature of chronic pain. Our remedial […]
Aug
Remedial massage offers a therapeutic approach to easing pain and hastening recovery from injuries, blending traditional techniques with tailored treatments to suit individual needs. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we specialise in this intricate therapy, aiming to not only alleviate pain but also to restore function and enhance overall well-being. Key Takeaways: Remedial massage provides targeted pain relief, enhancing comfort during recovery. This therapy promotes increased circulation, aiding the body’s natural healing process. Regular treatments can improve flexibility and mobility in affected areas. The therapy also supports mental well-being, helping reduce stress associated with injuries. How Remedial Massage Can Help in Recovering from Injuries Direct Impact on Injury Sites: Remedial massage techniques are adept at targeting the specific tissues affected by an injury. By applying controlled pressure to the injured area, these techniques help break down scar tissue and adhesions that can restrict movement and cause pain. As a result, the direct manipulation of these tissues stimulates healing and the restoration of healthy function. Enhancing Lymphatic Drainage: One of the lesser-known but critical benefits of remedial massage is its ability to stimulate the lymphatic system, which is pivotal in reducing swelling and inflammation often associated with injuries. Improved lymphatic drainage not only alleviates pain but also enhances immune system function, which is crucial in fighting off potential infections that can complicate the recovery process. Stimulation of Endorphin Release: The process of remedial massage helps in stimulating the body’s production of endorphins, the natural ‘feel good’ hormones. These hormones act as natural painkillers, reducing the perception of pain and promoting a sense of well-being. This psychological boost is essential, as it can significantly impact one’s motivation and enthusiasm for continuing with the rehabilitation process. Restoring Muscular Balance and Posture: Injuries often disrupt the normal muscular balance within the body, leading to compensatory movements and postures that can themselves lead to further discomfort or injury. Remedial massage helps to identify and correct these imbalances. By easing the tension in overused muscles and stimulating underactive ones, the body can return to a more natural posture and reduce the risk of recurring injuries. Preventative Measures for Future Injuries: Beyond just aiding in recovery, remedial massage serves a preventative function. Regular sessions can identify and mitigate risk factors associated with injuries, such as tightness in certain muscles or limited joint mobility. This proactive approach not only helps to prevent future injuries but also enhances overall physical performance and endurance. Integrating Remedial Massage into Recovery Plans Integrating remedial massage into an injury recovery plan should be done with consideration to the individual’s specific needs and medical history. Collaboration with healthcare professionals can ensure that massage techniques are effectively aligned with other treatment modalities, such as physical therapy or medication, for optimal recovery. Customised Treatment Approaches: Every injury is unique, and thus, every remedial massage session should be tailored to the specific needs of the individual. Experienced therapists at Melbourne Massage and Treatment assess each client’s condition and create a personalised treatment plan. Long-Term Health Benefits The benefits of remedial massage extend far beyond immediate injury recovery. Regular sessions contribute to maintaining a healthy musculoskeletal system, reducing the risk of injury by keeping muscles loose and flexible and improving joint mobility and stability. Furthermore, the relaxation benefits of massage can help manage stress, which is a common factor in many chronic health conditions. Holistic Approach to Well-being: Melbourne Massage and Treatment promotes a holistic approach to health, where remedial massage is integrated with other wellness practices. This might include guidance on nutrition, exercise, and mental health strategies to support a well-rounded recovery and maintain long-term health and well-being. Empowering Clients: Educating clients about their body and the healing process is a critical component of the service provided. By understanding the mechanics of their recovery and the role remedial massage plays, clients are better equipped to take proactive steps towards their health, further enhancing the effectiveness of their treatment. Enhancing Mental and Emotional Well-being An often overlooked aspect of remedial massage is its capacity to improve mental and emotional health. The stress of dealing with an injury can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety and depression. Remedial massage helps mitigate these issues by promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. The soothing effect of hands-on therapy provides a therapeutic escape from the constant concern over injury and recovery, which in turn can accelerate the physical healing process. Optimal Circulatory Health Improved blood circulation is another significant benefit of remedial massage. By enhancing blood flow, more nutrients and oxygen are delivered to damaged tissues, which is crucial for repairing injuries. Additionally, better circulation helps to remove waste products and toxins from the body, which can accumulate around injury sites and slow down the healing process. This aspect of remedial massage is essential for those recovering from muscular injuries and strains, as it ensures that tissues receive the necessary components for swift recovery. Flexibility and Strength Remedial massage plays a crucial role in enhancing flexibility and strength, particularly post-injury. Techniques like stretching and kneading increase the elasticity of muscle fibers, preventing stiffness and increasing range of motion. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who are recovering from joint or muscle injuries, as it aids in gradually restoring strength without adding undue stress on the recovering tissues. Synergy with Other Therapies For comprehensive recovery, remedial massage often works best when combined with other therapeutic approaches. For instance, integrating massage with physiotherapy or chiropractic care can provide a more holistic recovery plan. Each therapy complements the other, with massage easing muscle tension and improving flexibility, while other treatments focus on alignment and functional improvement. Educating Clients on Self-Care At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge about self-care techniques that complement their in-clinic massage sessions. Simple strategies, such as regular stretching, proper hydration, and stress management techniques, are shared to enhance recovery and prevent future injuries. This education is crucial, as it helps clients maintain the benefits of massage between sessions and builds a foundation for lasting health. […]
Aug
Tendinopathy refers to the tendon’s painful or irritating condition, usually brought about by repetitive stress or overuse. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and swelling in the affected area. It often results from activities that put excessive strain on the tendon or sudden increases in activity levels. What is a tendon? A tendon is a tough, flexible band of fibrous connective tissue that ties a muscle to a bone. The force generated by the muscle would be relayed through tendons onto the bones, thereby allowing movement of the body. Tendons are made of closely packed bundles of collagen fibers, which enable them to be strong enough to bear such stresses of activities. As tendons are not as stretchy as muscle fibres, they deal with load differently. Indeed, if put under an intense load, repetitively stretched, or used for repetitive movement, tendons get irritated. What are the stages of tendon degeneration? Regardless of age or biological gender, we will all experience some form of tendon degeneration throughout life. The more tendons are used, the earlier the degenerative process will be. In this context, we must reevaluate the negativity of the world’s “degeneration.” So, instead of giving a negative value to this world, let’s consider tendon degeneration only as a process of change in the tendon structure. This process is made of 3 stages: Reactive Tendinopathy: The first stage is characterized by a non-inflammatory reaction with a thickened tendon from increased protein production. The tendon can return to normal if the stress is reduced. Tendon Disrepair: If untreated, this is typically the second phase after reactive tendinopathy and is identified by further separation of collagen, disorganization of matrix, increased vascularity, and neural ingrowth. It normally needs to be diagnosed through imaging. Degenerative Tendinopathy: This is the final stage, characterized by permanent changes including cell death and marked matrix disorganization; it results in thickened and nodular tendons. Poor prognosis is associated with this condition. What to do when experiencing tendon pain? As you start experiencing pain, it is always suggested to reach out to a professional health therapist to evaluate what the problem is. In regards to tendon pain, the first step, independently from which stage of degeneration the tendon is in to, is suggested rest from the movement that flair up the area. On top of that the usage of heat pack is reccomended for a couple of times a day for 10 to 15 minutes. Tendon have a low blood supply compared to muscles, and the heat applied from outside can help in driving more blood to the area. Moving forward, if the pain is still present after three days, then the usage of an anti-inflammatory is recommended. The suggestion is to wait 3 days because, in the first three days of pain, the body puts in place what we call the “initial inflammatory response”, a phase in which the body increases blood volume to the area together with other biochemical reactions that kickstart the healing process. If, after three days, the inflammation has not ceased, that’s when the anti-inflammatories are needed. How do we treat tendinopathy at Melbourne Massage and Treatment? As a Clinical Myotherapist, I would suggest starting in the early stage with hands-on treatment and exercises-rehabilitation, such as a Myotherapy session. Past the first 3 days of inflammatory response, is good to start looking into why the presentation is not progressing for the better. Treatment modalities: Deep tissue massage is a modality that can stimulate relaxation and drive more blood to the area affected. Myofascial Dry Needling (MDN) can target the muscle attached to the tendon/s. It can help boost a new inflammatory response, desensitise the painful area, and increase muscle activation by interacting with the central nervous system. Exercises are then the takeaway for home. In the early stage, we would use isometric exercises to desensitize the area, partially load the muscle and keep the tendon active with constant load. This type of exercise can be used during the 1st or the 2nd week, based on the degenerative process we are dealing with. In terms of the time of load, based on the subjective finding, a time would be outlined. Roughly, we know that we are looking at an isometric load that would last about 30 to 45 secs with a break between one load and the next one, of the equivalent time. How long could it take to recover fully? Scientific studies have shown that the recovery process for tendinopathy varies from 3 weeks to 6 months. This is a big range of time, of course, and it is all about the gravity of the presentation, the tendon location, and the amount of rest that can be achieved along the recovery process. That said, as per all the exercises, the program is suggested for a minimum of three days a week and a maximum of five days a week. That would give enough time for the structure to be loaded and have time to recover, too. In conclusion, if you are suspicious of suffering from a tendinopathy, do not hesitate to reach out to Giovanni and Book Now for your next Myotherapy treatment. FAQ Q: What is tendinopathy? A: Tendinopathy is an injury to the tendons and results from repetitive stress or overuse. The result of the tendinopathy is pain, tenderness, and swelling into the affected area. Common activities causing this generally include over-straining or suddenly increasing the level of activity. Q: What is the degeneration process of the tendons? A: The tendon degeneration progresses in three stages: 1) Reactive Tendinopathy. 2) Tendon Disrepair. 3) Degenerative Tendinopathy. Q: What should I do if I have tendon pain? A: If suffering from tendon pain, basic things that you may try include: Rest the tendon from any activities that worsen the pain. Apply a heat pack for 10-15 minutes several times during the day as this helps to increase blood flow. Anti-inflammatory medication can be considered after three days, as this is typically when the initial inflammatory response has […]
Aug
Exercise is the cure for pain, and it is an underestimated medicine that could sort out many of our bodies’ aches. Strengthening exercise, such as exercising under load or resistance, can be done at home or the gym, and it should be part of our weekly routine. It is never too late to start exercising; everyone can benefit from it. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we always encourage our patients to make a treasure of the exercises we show, and if you have any questions about it, do not hesitate to ask. Exercises as Medicine. Exercise can be considered a potent medicine, offering many benefits beyond physical fitness. Regular physical activity has been scientifically proven to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. It also helps manage weight, improve mood, and enhance mental well-being by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, exercise strengthens muscles and bones, improves sleep quality, and boosts overall energy levels. Its ability to promote longevity and quality of life underscores its role as an indispensable component of preventive healthcare, highlighting the transformative power of exercise as medicine (Ruegsegger & Booth, 2018). How Exercises can help: Mechanotherapy. Mechanotherapy is the therapeutic application of mechanical forces to tissues and cells to promote healing and enhance physiological function. This approach harnesses the body’s innate response to physical stimuli, such as exercise, massage, and physical therapy, to stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and improve overall tissue resilience. By strategically applying mechanical forces, mechanotherapy aims to optimize biomechanical properties, restore normal tissue function, and alleviate symptoms associated with musculoskeletal injuries or chronic conditions. This therapeutic modality underscores the importance of tailored physical interventions in healthcare, offering a holistic approach to rehabilitation and wellness that complements traditional medical treatments. How many days a week? Ideally, you would like to exercise 3 to 5 times a week for 45 minutes to 1 hour daily, with 1 to 2 days of rest. The reason behind this is covered by the scientific research and data that we have in hand nowadays, which reveal the importance of loading the body with resistance and weights to grow and regenerate the body components, like muscle, tendons, ligaments, etc… and also the fact that, once the body has been put under load, it also needs time to rest and repair itself, which is crucial for maintaining optimal physical and mental health (Lee et al., 2017). Indeed, if we look at the effect of exercises on muscles, the muscles present with micro tears and micro damage post-exercise, which, the day after the training, reproduce pain, better known as DOMS ( Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness ). Time is needed to allow those microtears to recover. How long should DOMS last? As per all the inflammatory responses, DOMS can last between 24 to 72 hours. During this time frame, the body supplies extra blood to the muscles in order to implement a recovery process. During this time frame, to reduce discomfort and aches, you can use a heat pack (remember, no longer than 15 minutes), massage the area with oil, and do gentle movement. Avoid taking anti-inflammatories, as those would slow down the inflammatory response put in place by your body to heal. If pain persists longer than 72 hours, you can book a consultation or refer to a GP for advice on meds or scans. Can exercises be DOMS-free? Yes, exercises don’t have to reproduce pain every time. When you don’t feel that your muscles have been working that hard, it means that you haven’t pushed them to their limits, and therefore, they are not developing new fibres. Is this a bad thing? No, not necessarily. It is all about what you are aiming for. Indeed, if you are aiming to recover from an injury or you are training for a competition, then yes, you would aim to feel the DOMS the day after, especially if you are at the start of your training journey. On the other hand, if you are happy with the level of strength achieved, you can keep the current presentation by doing general training, without pushing your body close to its limit, by exercising twice a week only and by not increasing the load of resistance/weights as weeks pass by. Exercises and muscle bulk. Doing regular exercise is not going to make you bulky unless you are keen to be hyper-disciplined about the type of exercise, timing, and nutrition. But let’s see in more detail what happens to the muscle cells during exercise. Firstly, we have to understand that hypertrophy. Hypertrophy refers to the increase in the size of muscle cells due to the rise in their component proteins. There are two primary types of hypertrophy: myofibrillar hypertrophy and sarcoplasmic hypertrophy. Myofibrillar Hypertrophy: This type of hypertrophy involves increased size and number of myofibrils within muscle fibres. Myofibrils are the contractile units responsible for muscle contraction. Training focusing on heavy resistance and lower repetitions (e.g., weightlifting) typically induces myofibrillar hypertrophy, increasing muscle strength and density. Sarcoplasmic Hypertrophy: Sarcoplasm is muscle cells’ fluid and energy storage area. Sarcoplasmic hypertrophy involves an increase in the volume of sarcoplasm within the muscle fibres. This type of hypertrophy is often associated with higher repetition ranges and moderate resistance (e.g., bodybuilding workouts). It results in larger, more visually noticeable muscles but with less emphasis on maximal strength gains compared to myofibrillar hypertrophy. Mechanism of Muscle Growth: During exercise, particularly resistance training, muscle fibers experience microscopic tears. In response to these tears, the body initiates a repair process that involves synthesising new proteins to rebuild and strengthen the muscle fibers. Over time, with consistent exercise and adequate nutrition, this repair process leads to an increase in muscle size and strength. Importance of Nutrition: Proper nutrition is crucial for supporting muscle growth. Adequate protein intake is essential as proteins are the building blocks of muscle tissue. Carbohydrates provide energy for workouts, while fats contribute to overall health and hormone regulation. Additionally, sufficient […]
Jun
A surgery, even the most minor cut, is a big deal for the body. And a robust Lymphatic System can help you recover faster from this type of intervention. The lymphatic system is a body system that collects, moves and cleans the excess water and substances, like bacteria, viruses, dirt, tattoos, ink and more, from below the skin and then passes it to the bloodstream. Lymphatic System and Surgery. 80% of the Lymphatic System seats below the skin, and 20% sits with the deep fascia. When going for surgery and the skin gets cut, the superficial layer of the lymphatic system gets interrupted and so damaged. Unless we intervene, the lymphatic system will have a hard time regenerating. Indeed the lymphatic system can regenerate if stimulated. The stimulation of the lymphatic system happens through the touch, like with MLD or through the movement of the body, like exercises, even as simple as muscle contraction. How MLD can help the pre and post-surgery. Indeed, before or after surgery, it is recommended to stay active. This would allow the Lymphatic System to stay active and robust and regenerate quickly. On the other hand, being active post-surgery is not always an option. In fact, during the post-surgery, being active in the area that got stitches can be a contraindication, as the stitches could brake. A cast may be present in other cases, and the muscle near the surgery can’t be moved. That’s where MLD can help the lymphatic system to be stimulated. By doing so, we can guarantee the circulation of liquids in the body. But not only that. Reducing the swell around the cutting area or below the area affected by the operation would guarantee a fast recovery. This is because the oxygen released from the blood capillary, which would initially be too far from the swollen skin, can now reach the wound and help recover the skin cut. But if the area is puffed or swollen, that oxygen can’t travel as far, and the healing will not be as fast. So MLD, by boosting the lymphatic system, reduces the swelling and allows the body’s natural healing process. What to do if I have to go for surgery then? If you are up for surgery soon and you have no contraindication to MLD, what you can do to guarantee a faster recovery is, keep moving as much as you can, stay active, and book yourself in for a few MLD treatments just for the days before your surgery is due. That would help with the Lymphatic System recovery, as a more robust and healthier Lymphatic System would recover faster. And as the risk of infection and post-surgery are under control, and your blood pressure is within the acceptable range (this depends on what type of surgery you did), get moving as possible and come back for a few more sessions of MLD. Whit, what type of intervention can MLD help with? C-section (preeclampsia) bone fracture liposuction carpal tunnel knee reconstruction hip replacement day hospital intervention I went for surgery, and I got Lymph Nodes removed. As often can happen for cancer surgery, lymph nodes get removed if they are contaminated by the cancerogenic cells. Lymph node removal prevents the cancer cell from spreading along the rest of the body. If that’s the case, I may not be the practitioner that does this for you, as my qualification for MLD are up to a level where I can work with a patient who has an entire lymphatic system. Said so, I can still refer you to a practitioner who would be able to look after yourself. Do you have any questions about this topic? Or would you like to book in now your next session? Get in touch now through the contact page or place a booking by clicking here.
“I was lifting the box from the floor, and then, ouch I did my back”! How often have you heard this? What’s going on here? Lower back pain is a common presentation that affects many people all around the world. But hurting your back when picking a box, or even a lightweight as the key, or tightening the shoes, is an injury that doesn’t affect only those with lower back pain. So to explain the mechanism behind these incidents, we have to look into what we call “proprioceptors”, specifically “muscle spindle”. Proprioceptors are body receptors within the skin, muscles and joints that reveal information about the body’s movement and send this information to the brain. How that information is transmitted to the brain is by different types of a pathway that we will see in a future post. In specific, today, we are going to look at the “muscle spindle”. So muscle spindles are proprioceptors that can tell the brain how the body is moving, specifically a muscle, and a proprioceptor that can tell a muscle to relax and change to stretch. Indeed, muscle spindles are different from other proprioceptors, as they can alter their sensitivity as needed. What did Muscle Spindles have to do with my back then? As mentioned above, a muscle spindle can alter muscle consistency. So, when banding forward to pick up the key or do the shoes lase, the back muscle must relax, as they have to stretch. But, if the muscle spindle doesn’t tell the back muscle to relax as you bend, those muscles will stay contracted, and guess what happens next? “Ouch, I did my back.” How to prevent the injury then? To prevent an injury as such, movement is the answer. Movement, as simple as a cat and cow exercise, would create that feedback response between your lower back area and the brain that, in the long term, would ensure your brain knows that when bending, the posterior portion of the body needs to be told to relax. Said so simple movement can prevent the injury, but further exercises, like a deadlift, can help your entire posterior chain to get stronger and get you to the next level of strengthening. But before lifting heavy weights, let’s not forget the importance of looking into mobility. In conclusion, to prevent this injury from happening, start moving. Incorporate regular breaks from your seating at the desk. Have a timer on your desk that, every 45 minutes, remind you to stand up, have a stretch and short walk, a water sip and get back to work. Book your next massage session at Melbourne Massage and Treatment if this post talks to you. How can Massage help? Massage therapy can help in different ways. First, it can help reduce the muscular tension within the lower back area. Second, the massage touch can help increase that body awareness, preventing further injury. The recovery process from an injury does depend from person to person. But within a few sessions within 1 to 2 months, using a mix of techniques, like MLD, Myotherapy and or Thai Massage, there is a good chance of good recovery and injury prevention. Exercises play an important role too in this recovery phase. How Many Sessions would I need? As already mentioned, everyone is different. Based on my experience, to help someone recover from an injury, initially, it can take up to 5 sessions spread over two months to achieve a good result. And again, this is not only about Massage but also about corrective exercises. Therefore, I offer a treatment plan allowing you to uptake five sessions of any treatment type at a discount rate of 10%. This offer is valid for returning clients who already had an initial consultation. This would allow me, as a therapist, to ensure I am the right therapist for you and that we can create a treatment plan that works for you and that you can use for your benefit.
Dec
The Nervous System (NS) controls the voluntary and automatic functions of the body. It is made up of: brain spinal cord nerves Subdivision of the Nervous System The nervous system, initially, can be divided into the Central Nervous system (CNS), which is made of the Brain and Spinal Cord and the Perhiperic Nervous System (PNS), which consists of nerves that connect the CNS to the rest of the body. In more detail, the PNS can be divided into Sensory Neurons and Motor Neurons, the Motor Neurons can be divided into Somatic Neurons and Autonomic Neurons, and finally, this last is divided into the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems. The function of the Nervous System The nervous system can also be defined by its functionality. For this subdivision, we have three categories: Sensory Affarent function Integrative function Motor Efferent Function The afferent function is characterised by a signal that travels to the brain from the PNS. The integrative part analyses the sensory information, stores some aspects, and makes decisions regarding appropriate behaviours. The Motor does respond to the stimulus by initiating an action. The Nervous System is made of Neurons. Neurons carry messages to and from different parts of the body. To be functional, neurons need three components: Oxygen Stimulation Food Neurons can start within the brain and travel down to the spine or can begin with the peripheric portion of the body and travel to the spine and brain next. Either way, the information can travel in one direction only. For afferent neurons, the direction is from the peripheric body portion to the brain, and the efferent is from the CNS or Brain to the peripheric part. Synapses connect neurons. The Synapse is the space where information is exchanged between two neurons. For a signal to be transmitted along a neuron, a chemical reaction has to happen within the neuron cell. This chemical reaction is better known as Action Potential. Once an Action Potential is started, an electric signal, within the order of mV would be transmitted from the Neuron cell to the opposite end, called Axon Terminal. At The Axon Terminal, the neurotransmitter would be passed and sent to the next neuron, receiving those substances through the receptors on its cell membrane. This is just a simplification of how communication between two neurons happens. In reality, there are variations to this communication methodology, and not always does the communication succeed. The NS is responsible for the following: memory, learning and intelligence movement controls the organs’ functions: – heart beating – breathing – digestion – sweating the senses: – sight – hear – taste – touch – smell The Sympathetic and Para-Sympathetic NS. The Autonomic NS controls the body parts we don’t have to think about it, like breathing, sweating or shivering, indeed the main organs. The SNS controls how we respond to emergencies. It makes our heart beat faster and causes the release of adrenaline. Where the parasympathetic nervous system prepares the body for rest (for example, when we go to sleep). The PSNS and the SNS work together to manage the body’s responses to our changing environment and needs. Massage and Nervous System As massage or manual therapy is a direct stimulus of the body, it plays a role in the response of the NS. What can happen is due to genetic factors, muscle tensions, and bulge disk nerves can get trapped along the way. Using the different testing approaches, such as Myotome and Dermatome, Giovanni can guide you through understanding where the nerve got entrapped or pinched. But this type of work is mainly for conditions where physically the nerve is involved in pour functionality. An example can be when someone has poor strength, on one hand, compared to the other, or when the sensitivity of a patch of skin is not so accurate. MLD and Nervous System Another technique, such as MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage), plays a role in the Parasympathetic Nervous System. An MLD treatment is profoundly relaxing, as it calms the nervous system, reduces pain and restores balance. This happens because of the mechanic repetitive movement used during the technique. There for, no pain has to be replicated during the treatment, or the SNS gets activated, as per pain response, and the body goes into “alarm” mode. Physical or mental pathologies can play a crucial role in the functionality of the nervous system, and techniques like MLD or Massage therapy generally can help in reducing symptoms and assisting in overcoming pain and body dysfunctions. Along the mental conditions, we find Anxiety or Depression too. In conclusion, any Massage Therapy or Manual Therapy, including Thai Massage, Remedial Massage, MLD and or Myotherapy, are great tools to release the tension in the body and improve the status of the nervous system. On the other hand, breathing, as per already disgust in the breathing wave blogs (Blog 1, Blog 2) plays a vital role in the well-being of the body, mind and nervous system. Feel stressed and need to release some tension? Book now your next massage at Melbourne Massage and Treatment.
Oct
Sitting on the floor is the new mobility movement. Sitting at the desk and sitting on the floor. Working in the office is a challenging task for the body, and in the last few years, something made this task even worst. Covid-19 forced millions of people worldwide to work from home. Consequently, many people reduce their daily movement activity and start increasing their stress response to work and everyday life. But what does covid-19 have to do with seating on the floor, you may ask yourself? Well, for convenience, and other rules, such as hygiene too, we nowadays spend most of our time sitting on chairs. At least within Western cultural settings. Asian Squat But as we all know, floor seating is an ancient practice in the East side of the world. In our collective mind, we all can refer to Asian people squatting anywhere they can, and with not much problem. In the West, squatting is associated with going to the gym, training, and being sporty. It is funny, isn’t it?! So, that’s where covid-19 is linked to seating on the floor. I am working from home and sitting on the floor. Due to the covid pandemic, many people have started working from home. But the home ergonomics for office work differ from those in the office. In addition to this, we have to add that as big and comfortable as a chair can be, it is always a chair. Indeed, the chair is a silent killer. Sitting on a chair limits our ability to move around as discomfort arises. Think now about sitting on the floor and standing back up. For the average adult, doing this task is not a comfortable thing. Why so? Well, because we are not used to it. All this year, sitting on a chair did reduce our body adaptability to the ground sitting. Sitting on a chair for long hours would: stiff up the hips, which are in constant flexion increase pressure on the Lumbar back arch the thoracic area, with an increase in kyphosis reduce the necessity for mobility In fact, within 20 minutes of no movement, a muscle would adapt to the shape it is sitting into. On the other hand, as the muscle starts losing its neuroplasticity, the joints controlled by those muscles would start stiffening up too. This is such a domino effect that it would break the equilibrium along the stability/mobility joints chain. How to prevent this? Well, sitting on the floor is a good start. Sitting on the floor comes with the benefits of more mobility options. As we may feel uncomfortable with the sitting position, changing position would be a spontaneous and comfortable act once on the floor. But as we are so used to sitting on chairs, starting sitting on the floor for 8 hours a day can be challenging. So, rather than sitting on a chair all day, initially switching between floor sitting, chair and standing up is good. This process would allow the body to slowly break the bad habit of rounding onto the desk from the stiff chair seating. Also, the body is not designed to either sit on a chair or stand up for so long for so many days. So the habit of changing position would improve mobility, and with it, many other things would come down to and ease. In conclusion, to improve the Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) presentation of someone who spends long hours sitting at a desk, the steps to take are: reduce the symptoms of pain and discomfort in the Cx area start losing up the thoracic area Improving hip mobility allows the person to spend more time on the floor. The work that needs to be done within the thoracic area is to lose the vertebrae by doing some mobs and reducing tension on the lat dorsi muscle. In this next post, we will look into the following: How to sit on the floor and how to stand back up Exercises that can help to improve the floor seating time. Would you like to improve your mobility? Book Now a Thai yoga class with Giovanni or a Massage session to learn more about what can help you.
Oct
Joint mobilisations are manual therapy techniques that improve joint mobility and flexibility and reduce joint pain. Joint mobilisation can be applied to many body joints. Some contraindications have to be taken into consideration for mobilisation: Joint swelling Osteo Arthritis Bone Fracture Bulge disk (if the mobs are intended on a vertebra) Mobilisation VS Adjustment. Mobilisations are different from Chiropractic adjustment. The difference is that Chiropractic adjustments are fast movements applied with more significant pressure. Mobilisations are constant slow, repetitive movements applied to the joint. Along with a Myotherapy treatment, Giovanni would evaluate if mobilisation is the proper treatment for your condition. For example, mobilisation along the spine is recommended when someone presents with a stiff back in the sacrum, lumbar, thoracic or lower cervical area. Giovanni would always double-check with you about what the mobs felt like. Types of Mobilisation. As we already know, the body is made of different types of joints. Given the different types of joints, like socket joints, plane joints and more, others are the type of mobilisation. For example: For a joint like the hip, we can apply mobility like a distraction, anterior-to-posterior pressure or posterior-to-anterior pull, internal rotation or superior-to-inferior pull. Some of these techniques can be applied to other joints, and each way of using a mobilisation aims to improve a specific range of motion. So, all up, the type of mobilisation that we have are: Superior to Inferior; Inferior to superior; Distraction; Posterior to Anterior; Anterior to Posterior; Posterior glide; Anterior glide; Lateral glide; Medial glide. Mobilisation Belt. A mobilisation belt can be used to deliver the mobilisation based on the joint we aim to work on. A belt is a tool wrapped around the designated joint we want to work on and is used to apply stretches that would not be as easy to achieve by hand. An example is a hip distraction. For distraction, we refer to it as a force that pulls a joint apart. In the case of a hip, the head of the femur is pulled away from the hip’s socket from the medial to the lateral direction. As you would imagine, using bare hands for applying this technique not only could result in an uncomfortable approach to the intimacy of the patient, but it would requireFr too much effort for the therapist, resulting in poor mobilisation delivery and risk of injury. Therefore, the best tool is a belt wrapped around the patient’s hip and the therapist’s waist. Why use the mobilisation technique? The mobilisation technique aims not to reproduce pain, cracking sound, or sharp sensation. Indeed, the aim is to reproduce a firm pressure/pull on the joint area. Regarding the thoracic area, if any of those vertebrae reproduce pain or sharp sensation, applying the mobs along the vertebrae/ribs joint would be better. Doing so would still possible to affect spine mobility indirectly. Giovanni’s training for this type of modality started during the Advance Diploma in Myotherapy at RMIT and continued at the Bachelor of Health Science at Torrens University. Mobilisations technique can be applied to Big Toe, Ankle, Shoulder, Feet, Hip, Wrist, Elbow, Vertebrae, SIJ joint, Facet Joint, Clavicle and other body areas. An example of joint mobilisation for the feet. Mobilisations at the ankle area are used for improving ankle mobility. Indeed, improving ankle mobility is to better support during the walk, standing and or running. Always talking about the feet area, the mobilisation applied to the Big Toes is used along the Metatasolphalangeal Joint. Do you feel your joints stiff? Your booking for a Myotherapy treatment with Giovanni is just a click away. This mobilisation is applied by creating a distraction movement within the joint, pulling the toes away and then using it for passive flexion and extension. As mentioned in another blog post about wearing bear foot shoes, the Big toes are meant to extend from 65° to 70°. Conclusion The Big Toes are the feet joint that should push the most in the feet strike as we walk. In conclusion, mobilisations are a great way to increase mobility within a joint allowing better movement and improving the range of motion.