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 […]
Tag Archives: massage
Blog
Hormones and Menopause: What is happening?
Menopause is a crucial step in a woman’s life. Menopause marks the time when a [...]
Continue readingMar
Blog
How Strength Exercises Can Help With Bone Density
Bone density is a key factor in bond fracture prevention. Bone is made of cells [...]
Continue readingMar
Blog
How Lymphatic Drainage Massage Can Help with Menopause Symptoms?
Menopause is a natural transition in every woman’s life, which marks the end of a [...]
Continue readingMar
Blog Melbourne Massage and Treatment
Body scans as a Diagnostic Tools
Musculoskeletal pain can be complex, and orthopedic tests and hands-on treatment, sometimes, can be a [...]
Continue readingMar
Blog
Meralgia Paresthetica: Causes, Symptoms, and Myotherapy Treatment
Meralgia Paresthetica is a condition characterized by numbness, tingling, and burning pain in the outer [...]
Continue readingMar
Jul
The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) stands as a transformative initiative in Australia, particularly significant in Melbourne, Victoria’s vibrant capital. Designed to provide support and services to Australians with disabilities, NDIS embodies a commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and improved quality of life for participants across the country. NDIS and Massage Therapy Understanding the NDIS Established in 2013, NDIS represents a shift towards individualised support plans tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of people with disabilities. In Melbourne, this framework ensures that individuals have access to necessary supports that enhance their independence and participation in the community. How It Works At its core, NDIS operates by providing eligible individuals with funding for a range of supports and services. These can include personal care, access to therapies, assistive technology, and modifications to homes or vehicles, all aimed at fostering greater autonomy and well-being. Impact on Melbourne Communities Melbourne, renowned for its diversity and inclusivity, has embraced the principles of NDIS wholeheartedly. The scheme not only supports participants directly but also fosters a network of providers and community organizations dedicated to delivering high-quality services. This collaborative approach ensures that Melburnians with disabilities have access to a wide array of support options, tailored to their unique circumstances. NDSI services at Melbourne Massage and Treatment Giovanni, a dedicated Myotherapist based in North Fitzroy, plays a crucial role in the local implementation of NDIS services. His practice extends its services to surrounding suburbs, providing essential musculoskeletal therapies that enhance the physical well-being and quality of life for NDIS participants. Giovanni’s personalized treatment plans are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, contributing to their overall health and independence. Services covered by the NDIS scheme include Remedial Massage, Myotherapy, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). NDIS and Myotherapy In the vibrant landscape of Melbourne’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Myotherapy stands out as a pivotal therapy for enhancing participant well-being. Myotherapy focuses on assessing and treating musculoskeletal conditions through advanced techniques such as dry needling, joint mobilization, and tailored corrective exercises. For individuals with disabilities, this specialized approach targets pain management and improves physical function, empowering them to navigate daily life with greater comfort and mobility. NDIS and Remedial Massage Remedial Massage therapy plays a complementary role within the NDIS framework, offering participants relaxation, stress reduction, and relief from muscle tension. This therapeutic modality is essential for promoting overall physical and mental well-being. By addressing muscular discomfort and enhancing circulation, remedial massage supports participants in achieving a sense of relaxation and renewed vitality. NDIS and Manual lymphatic Drainage Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) emerges as a vital service under the NDIS, particularly beneficial for individuals managing conditions such as lymphedema. This gentle, specialized massage technique promotes lymph flow, reduces swelling, and supports immune function. MLD not only helps in managing symptoms but also contributes to enhancing participants’ quality of life by improving lymphatic circulation and overall wellness. In Melbourne, practitioners like Giovanni integrate these therapies into NDIS plans with a personalized approach, ensuring participants receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs and goals. Through Myotherapy, Remedial Massage, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage, NDIS participants in Melbourne are empowered to achieve greater independence, alleviate discomfort, and enhance their overall well-being. Challenges and Opportunities While NDIS has been instrumental in improving the lives of many, challenges such as navigating the application process or understanding available supports can arise. In Melbourne, organizations and advocacy groups play a crucial role in assisting individuals and families through these complexities, ensuring that every participant maximizes the benefits of the scheme. Looking Ahead As NDIS continues to evolve, Melbourne remains at the forefront of innovation and advocacy in disability support. The city’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is reflected in its ongoing efforts to improve service delivery and expand opportunities for those with disabilities. That said, if you need treatment, do not hesitate to book now an initial consultation with Giovanni. During the first session, Giovanni would be able to draft a personal treatment plan that works best for your presentation. If you are in doubt about what treatment works best for you, just get in touch with Giovanni, by clicking here. Conclusion In conclusion, the NDIS has had a profound impact on Melbourne, empowering individuals with disabilities to live more independently and participate fully in society. Through its person-centred approach and collaborative spirit, NDIS exemplifies Australia’s commitment to equity and dignity for all. As Melbourne continues to grow and evolve, so too will the opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive, supported by a framework that values their unique strengths and aspirations. Whether you’re a participant, a provider like Giovanni in North Fitzroy, or an advocate, NDIS in Melbourne represents a beacon of hope and progress towards a more inclusive future.
Jan
Here is a list of services available at Melbourne Massage and Treatment: Myotherapy Exercises Rehabilitation Remedial Massage Thai Massage MLD Thai Yoga What are these services about? First, any of those services are holistic services, so they can’t be official diagnoses for medical conditions, and Giovanni can’t prescribe any medications. What to expect is guidance on how muscularscaletol conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, tight muscle, muscle tear and more…can be looked after and overcome with manual therapy and exercises. As Myotherapist, Giovanni can guide you on how possibly the pain manifests and how with massage and specific exercises, the pain can be placed at ease. Part of the process of pain management is the change in habits. This can include posture at the workstation, but not only, but other changes can also include your training program, which maybe is too intense for your body and needs to be adjusted. How is the massage delivered? Any massage is delivered in total respect of the patient and the therapist. No nudity or sensual massage are available. Only the body area that needs attention would be exposed. The rest of the body is covered in a towel. Undress level is down to bra and underwear when need it. If we are working on your shoulder, there is no need to remove the pants. Regarding individual massage sessions, like myotherapy treatment, remedial massage, and/or Thai massage, an assessment of the muscular scale of the system would be delivered before the treatment. This assessment included a series of ROM. These assessments would help Giovanni understand what muscle or groups of muscles needs more attention during the treatment. What should I do before the massage session? Treatments such as myotherapy, remedial massage, and MLD include exposing the body parts that need to be worked on. Said so, having a shower before the treatment would be much appreciated. You don’t need to wear any perfume, a deodorant is enough. Should I shave? No, you don’t need to shave. If rock tape needs to be used, the rock tape can be placed over body hair. When you have to remove it, make sure to roll it downwards. Do not pull it off like it is a wax treatment. That could lead to ripping hair and skin off. Where does Giovanni work? Melbourne Massage and Treatment services are available at the Fitzroy North studio on Holden St. Book now your next appointment. If this post didn’t answer all your questions, don’t hesitate to message Giovanni through the Contact Page.
Fibromyalgia is a health condition that causes widespread pain and sensitivity to touch. This type of condition is more common in women than in men. Is still unknown to science why some people may suffer from Fibromyalgia, even though is known that stress can play a major role. On the other hand, genetics can also be the reason why someone can suffer from Fibromyalgia. Signs and symptoms Symptoms of fibromyalgia may include: headaches sleep disturbances numbness and tingling of the hands and feet muscle and joint stiffness after a period of rest (after sleeping) restlesconditionsndrome Other conditions could occur during the manifestation of symptoms for FiTo Diagnosis of fibromyalgia To be diagnosed with Fibromyalgia you have to visit your GP at first, who may will refer you to a specialist. The most widely used clinical criteria for diagnosing fibromyalgia is sourced from the American College of Rheumatology: pain and symptoms over the past week, based on the total of: number of painful areas out of 18 parts of the body the severity of these symptoms: fatigue waking unrefreshed cognitive problems (that can be memory or thought) plus other general physical symptoms symptoms lasting at least 3 months unchanged exclusion of other health problems that could reproduce the pain and other symptoms. Treatment and management So, currently, there is no direct cure for fibromyalgia, but there are many treatments that can help, like: improving your sleep routine more of a balanced diet relaxation meditation exercise MLD You can also talk to your GP to see what medications can reduce or manage the pain. Regarding MLD, it is an effective technique, as already disgusted in another blog post that can help with chronic pain management. Furthermore, MLD has a powerful relaxation effect, that can help in reducing the stress response and so alleviate the symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Are you in need of treatment? Follow this link to book your next massage session.
On the occasion of my 4th time in Chiang Mai, since 2018, I am dedicating this post to Thai Massage in Pichest Boonthumme Style. When and where did it all start? In March 2018, I started studying and practising Thai Massage. I came here to Chiang Mai, to see Pichest Boonthumme, after a friend’s recommendation. I was looking into finding someone, that could teach and share a massage technique, not only based on sequence and repetitive movement. As often happens, as long as you ask, what you are looking for will show up. And now, after 3 long years of the Covid pandemic and limitations on travelling, I am back in Chiang Mai. This is my first trip out of Australia since 2019, so it was an excellent way to celebrate the freedom of travelling, once again. Being back at Pichest Thai Massage School is always challenging. Even though I spent the last three years training for Remedial Massage, Myotherapy and MLD, when I came here, there was always something new to learn. Along with that new practice, there is always the Thai/Buddhist philosophy aspect of how to see things. I did really like the way Pichest, with his limited English, can explain the complex way life can present and shape, and how simple it is to learn how to deal with it. Just observe the breath. Well, no surprise, as this is the principle of Vipassana Meditation itself. That said, what most often happens is that people who come here to study with Pichest ask to learn how to breathe, even before they can receive a massage. Many people come here because they heard of how good Pichest is at giving massages. And they all come with the expectation to get fixed. And it is just hilarious to see how Pichest, every time, turn these people away from treatment and asks them to learn how to breathe. We are used to thinking of Thai Massage as a painful approach, a strong technique, and it is. But not because we are physically suffering means we are getting better. If we can’t deal with the pain if we stop breathing as we perceive that pain, we keep creating tension in the body and will not let the healing process happen. Breathing during a massage comes with a series of benefits: helps the blood to be pushed around Oxygenation of the muscle tissues Improve relaxation It helps in dealing with the pain reproduced by the touch of a tense area Stimulates the Vagus Nerve, which controls the parasympathetic nervous system On the other hand, before we start doing deep work on the body, the patient does better take 5 minutes to practice breathing, and the first area to work would be around the posterior portion of the shoulder and the hip or Tibia area, to stimulates the blood flow within the body. In conclusion, Thai Massage as we know it in the West is a bit of a distortion of the real thing. Thai Massage, as with any deep tissue massage, can replicate pain, but the pain must be good, not sharp. The pain must help to release tensions and not increase them. And to be a Thai Massage therapist, you better know your anatomy well. Are you curious to find out what a traditional Thai Massage is like? Bookings are open for Traditional Thai Massage at Melbourne Massage and Treatment Fitzroy North studio.
Nov
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking. (1) The mechanism behind Parkinson’s disease. So far, we know that Parkinson’s affects more men than women. Regarding the mechanism behind Parkinson, we have to look into the loss of neuro cells in the Basal Ganglia, a brain area that controls the body’s movement. These specific neuro cells produce a brain substance called Dopamine, which is related to body movement. Still, scientists don’t know what can make the cell in the Basal Ganglia die. Along with the loss of dopamine production in the Basal Ganglia, for those who suffer from Parkinson, there is also to consider the loss of the nerve endings that produce norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is the primary chemical messenger of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). As the Sympathetic Nervous System controls many automatic body functions, such as heart rate and blood pressure, this can explain how the symptoms related to Parkinson’s itself. Parkinson’s disease Symptoms A tremor in hands, arms, legs, jaw, or head Muscle stiffness, where muscle remains contracted for a long time Slowness of movement Impaired balance and coordination, sometimes leading to falls Other symptoms may include: Depression and other emotional changes Difficulty swallowing, chewing and speaking Urinary problems or constipation Skin problems How can massage help? Scientist suggests that massage can help reduce muscle stiffness and rigidity, symptoms often found in Parkinson’s patient. Massages are also suitable for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Said so, receiving a massage enables the patient to individualism what is more sensitive to the touch and what can promote more benefit if stimulated. Indeed, at the end of the massage, specific exercises can focus on relieving tension from that body’s area. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, Giovanni offers various services that can help reduce tensions with Parkinson’sons’ disease. Since Parkinson’s is a condition found mostly in older people, treatments like Myotherapy, Remedial Massage and MLD could be more indicated. Said so, regarding MLD, we always want to double confirm that there is no other condition, related or not related to Parkinson that could be partial or absolute contraindications. Reference: 1) https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/parkinsons-disease
Aug
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that opens into the hand. The median nerve runs through the carpal tunnel and gives feeling to the 2nd through the 4th finger (the medial half of it). Carpal tunnel is a condition that affects any gender, and the prevalent of people affected by this condition, are people who do repetitive movements with their hands and arm. Carpal tunnel Symptoms Numbness Pins and needles in the hand Pain, particularly at night Darting pains from the wrist Radiated or referred pain in the arm and shoulder Weakness of the hand The little finger and half of the ring finger are unaffected. Causes of Carpal Tunnel Presentation Occasionally there is no clear cause for Carpal Tunnel. Said so, sometimes there is a combination of factors such as: Arthritis – C.T. is a consequence of inflammation and swelling Pregnancy – During the pregnancy period, given the increase of hormones, the body tends to retain more fluid, which can compress the median nerve and replicate CT symptoms. Genetics – some people can have smaller carpal tunnel Overuse injury – as previously mentioned, repetitive movement and overload of the wrist can lead to CT syndrome Treatment options Along with different treatment options, massage is the first non-invasive approach someone can try for carpal tunnel. As soon as the symptoms show up, it would be wise to go and see a massage therapist. Techniques such as Remedial Massage, Myotherapy can easily address the problem and alleviate the pain. Depending on the presentation and the cause of the carpobual tunnel, even Applied MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) can be an ideal treatment option. Along the physical therapy, rest is highly recommended, and exercises, as often happen, play the main role. To prevent pain from wrist movement, a splint can help. Other treatment options. Surgery is a standard alternative option for Carpal Tunnel. It is a common intervention and can be done on both hands simultaneously. The patient can choose to go for local or general anaesthesia. Surgery for Carpal Tunnel involves a cut along the palm and the wrist. The surgeon then cuts the ligament to reduce pressure on the underlying median nerve. Once the skin gets stitched back, the ligaments heal themselves, and the new scar would not put so much pressure on the median nerve. Even though the surgery is easy, it can have some complications, like swelling and damage to the median or ulnar nerve. Also, if the ligament was not cut completely, it would still apply pressure on the Median Nerve, and a second surgery would be needed.
Jul
Barefoot shoes are now becoming more and more popular. One of the main reasons why this is happening, I believe is the spreading idea that having the feet, seated in a tight box all day, is not so beneficial. So, what can be beneficial about going around barefoot? Or having barefoot shoes? Well, the foot is made up of 20 muscles, and 30 ligaments. That’s a lot for such a small body portion. Now, in order to have those muscles working and the ligaments playing their function, to hold the joint together and allow the joint stability to be efficient, both those 2 groups of body connective fibres have to be stimulated. So, that’s where the tight box fails. Having rigid shoes on all day, with or without a high heel, is not supportive, it is actually numbing the muscles. Said so, it is true that shoes can protect the feet from damage. In certain environments, shoes, especially rigid protective shoes are mandatory, like in the construction industry or in a factory. But even through that, we don’t spend all day at work, isn’t it? Are you saying that barefoot wearing is for everyone? No, I am not saying that. There are specific conditions, that may not allow you to wear barefoot shoes. But, if you are in doubt about what’s the right thing to do, I would get in touch with a podiatrist, and he specific if you are in Melbourne I would contact Andy. I did that myself. My journey actually started in 2018 when I was in Thailand studying with Pichest. He always points out students about their feet and wrinkled toes. He would refer to shoes and Sox as cages for feet. In Thailand, there is no need for shoes, as is really hot, he would be barefoot or use flip-flops all day. ( I then realise that not even flip flop is a solution, anyway). Said so, once I left Chiang Mai back then I did decide to start using sandals all year round. Even though I have to say that occasionally in winter, I did wear closed shoes. The years did pass by and I did notice my pinky toes were not changing shape after all these years compared to the other 4 toes. The pinky toes were still seating quite close to the 4th toes and would not go out straight. Simultaneously, my Instagram account did start to come up more frequently with posts of barefoot shoes and barefoot sandals. From there then, I did realise that wearing sandals with a narrow front was not going to make much of a difference. Also, the sandals I was wearing, were quite rigid anyway. So that would basically not make much difference for my foot, I found out later. How did I get to wear barefoot shoes? That’s when I went to see Andy, in Feb ’22. Andy is a really carrying and smiling man. I like his approach to the question I was asking and took a quiet pragmatic approach to my feet/body presentation. After several assessments on the spot, I was told that wearing barefoot was not going to be a problem. And actually, another thing that I was told was that my left foot, which is flat compared to the right was not a problem either. And that was the main reason I went to see Andy actually. To find out how I could fix that flat foot. And with my surprise, I was told that flat foot is there because the body compensates for structural scoliosis. So If I was going to change my left foot shape, probably I would create an issue then in my back or hip. In conclusion, since Feb 22 I start wearing barefoot shoes. I did opt for Vivo barefoot. So far, can’t complain. I can see my feet changing shape, and even when I go for hikes and long walks I have no foot pain or discomfort. I don’t see myself going back to wearing conventional shoes any soon. And since then I start recommending to my client too about barefoot wearing. I always suggest them having a chat with Andy or a podiatrist who can see the potential of barefoot wearing, and for those who took up the change, so far, haven’t heard any complaints but only good stories. Another way to dig more about barefoot wear is also visiting SoleMechainc, a shoe shop down in Hampton, where you can find a broad range of barefoot wear and fantastic client service. In conclusion, if you are foot is in pain, massage therapy would still help. But as often happen, massage therapy by itself is not enough, so exercise, and change habits.
Muscle and Tendon are two types of fibres that connect bonds, allowing the joint to be moved by contracting or extending. Muscles and Tendons characteristics. A muscle consists of fibres of muscle cells covered by fascia, bundled with many more fibres, surrounded by thick protective tissue. So each muscle fibre is covered in the fascia, then wrapped as a whole muscle in more fascia. A tendon is a high-tensile-strength band of dense fibery connective tissue. Indeed tendons can transmit the mechanical forces of muscle to the skeletal system. Tendons, as per ligaments, are made of collagen fibres. Compared to a tendon, a muscle is elastic and sits in between 2 tendons parts which keep the muscle itself connected to bonds. So yes, muscles are not directly connected to bond themself. Luckily, there is to say, because if this was the case, it would be really easy to suffer from injuries like a muscle tear. Said so, it is now easy to understand that tendons are capable of holding more force. Injury type Due to the consistency of the tendon and its functionality, we can now understand why a tendon tear or rupture is a severe injury that requires surgical intervention and months of rehabilitation. On the other hand, often, after months of rehabilitation, still, the tendon would not go back to its original state. A common tendon rupture is Achille’s tendon. Achille’s tendon connects the lower part of the Gastrocnemius and Soleus to the foothill. Repetitive movement and repetitive partial load on this tendon are the leading cause of injury. Healthy muscle and tendon Simple and gentle exercises are a good way to keep your muscle and tendon out of trouble. The key points of these types of exercises are: Consistency Resisted load (by using rubber bands) Starting with light weight to then building up with time heavier load Good posture doing the exercises Have a day of rest from exercises once a week Avoid exercises that aggravate your pain. Said so, other critical points for muscle and tendons good health seating into: Having a good night’s rest Eating more fresh food than overprocessed food Regarding recovery from an injury, as previously mentioned in the ice pack and/or heat pack posts, the usage of temperature is recommended based on the stage of the injury and the pain experienced with it. Even though on an inflamed tendon, never apply a heat pack. Are you in need of treatment? Don’t look any further, and book your initial consultation by clicking here.
Jul
A muscle tear is an acute injury caused by a laceration of the muscle cells/fibres and or tendon to which the muscle is attached to. How can happen a muscle tear? A muscle tear happens when a muscle is weak and don’t activate at the right time. Weak muscles are common in repetitive movement or when a muscle overcompensates due to a fragile pattern. For example, tearing a hamstring is expected when the Gluteal Firing pattern is incorrect. This type of injury is common in sports activities. Still, it can also happen within a home environment by lifting a box incorrectly or during garden activities. The three grades of muscle tear. Grade 1 muscle tear is the mildest one. As per this case, only a few muscle cells have been torn. Symptoms are like: mild pain, moderate swelling, none or light bruising. In grade 2, a moderate amount of muscle cells have been damaged. Symptoms are like: Bruising is now more evident as per the swelling You must luckily hear a sound as the tear happens More severe pain, especially when trying to use that muscle. Grade 3 is the worst-case scenario. In grade 3 muscle tear, the muscle has fully torn. Still, a pop or a sound would happen as the tear happens. On the opposite side of where the muscle did lacerate, you will notice a bulge as the muscle coiled up after tearing. Weakness in using the limb where the muscle got torn. In case of a Grade 3 muscle tear, surgery is needed to reattach the muscle. How to treat a muscle tear? The immediate appliance of heat or cold packs is highly debated. A cold pack would numb the area and help with the pain symptoms. As mentioned in the “Ice Pack” blog post, that is actually recommended. On the other hand, a heat pack would help stimulate blood circulation in the affected area, reduce swelling, and boost recovery. It’s important to note that applying a heat pack too soon after an injury can actually make things worse. It’s best to wait until the acute phase has passed, which typically takes around 48 hours. At that point, heat therapy can be a helpful way to alleviate pain and promote healing. Regarding massage treatments, MLD can be the only technique used as soon as the tear happens. Indeed MLD would be highly recommended for boosting the recovery, especially in case of a tear in 3rd grade, where operation is needed. In case of a 3rd-grade muscle tear, the first thing to do is see a doctor. Other massage techniques, such as Myotherapy, Remedial Massage and Thai Massage, are still valuable for muscle tears. On the other hand, either Myotherapy, Remedial or Thai Massage can only be practised after 48 hours of rest are passed after the incidents. Indeed that 48 h is considered the acute phase of the muscle tear. How to prevent a muscle tear? More the body moves, the less the chance of injury. Making sure to do simple exercises involving basic body movement can help in muscle tear prevention. but not only. Keeping the joint moving is another essential aspect of injury prevention. How can massage help? Along with a massage treatment, the area of focus will be the torn muscle and surrounding area. Initially, the technique used with a massage treatment, especially for the injured area, would be MFTT and passive movement/mobilisation. That would help muscle recovery and facilitate joint mobility, reducing the muscle’s load. Going ahead with the treatments, techniques such as MET, a resisted muscle force technique, can be used. This would allow the muscle to gain elasticity. Book your next session by clicking here if you are suspicious of a muscle tear and need treatment.