Use Online Booking to book Myotherapy, Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Chiropractic and Naturopathy appointments at our Ferntree Gully Clinic!

August 21, 2017, 7:00 am

≫ Next: What is myotherapy?

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You can now book online for more than just Myotherapy through my online booking page!!
My new clinic at Balanced Life Health Care in Ferntree Gully offers Myotherapy, Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Chiropractic and Naturopathy - all under one roof!

Whats even better is that when you book appointments with 2 or more practitioners on the same day, we give you 20% off all your treatments!

Our fantastic Chiropractor Dr Nathan Petridis and I offer a great Chiro/Myo bundle deal - a half hour Myo treatment to get your muscles loosened up before your Chiropractic adjustment, for only $100.
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Having all your therapists at the one clinic is super convenient - you don't have to try to understand, interpret and explain your situation to your other therapists when we can directly collaborate on the most effective treatment plan for you, how easy is that!

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What is myotherapy?

September 20, 2017, 9:20 pm

≫ Next: What to expect during your Myotherapy appointment

≪ Previous: Use Online Booking to book Myotherapy, Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Chiropractic and Naturopathy appointments at our Ferntree Gully Clinic!

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What Is Myotherapy? Your Questions Answered 
A common question I hear from clients and friends is: 'what IS myotherapy?' Many people think it's just massage. Others might be confused about the difference between myotherapy and other physical therapies. So today, I thought I'd share a little about what it is I do.
 
What is myotherapy?
Myotherapy means 'muscle therapy'. Simply put, it's about treating the muscles to restore function and optimise the health of each muscle. There's also treatments that work on the supportive tissues, like your ligaments, tendons and other connective tissue.
 
When performed correctly, it can be a very relaxing form of care. I pride myself on offering treatment that isn't rough or painful, so it doubles as a treatment AND a massage!
 
Myotherapists are trained in anatomy, physiology, hands-on treatment, assessment of the body, corrective exercise, and how to utilise breaking research to support client health.
 
Who is myotherapy for?
Myo can be appropriate for pretty much anyone! The good thing about myotherapy is that the treatment can be adapted to someone's age, fitness level, pain level and lifestyle.
 
So if you're worried that you're:

• Too young or too old
• Too healthy or too sick
• Injured

- there's no reason to! Myotherapy can help anyone looking to have a healthy musculoskeletal system.
 
What can myotherapy help with?
Wondering if myo is useful for your needs? Here are just a handful of conditions that it can benefit:

• Chronic pain
• Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
• Sports injuries
• Chronic injuries
• Knee pain
• Back pain
• Shoulder/neck pain
• TMJ pain
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
• Postural imbalances
• Headaches and migraines
• Nerve pains and sensations
• Painful or restricted movement of muscles
• Arthritis
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
• Connective tissue disease

 
It can also be used as a form of preventative medicine. As I will be regularly assessing the state of your body, it means we can monitor how healthy you are. If you start to have problems, we can intervene early and prevent further injury or damage.
 
My personal interest as a myotherapist is working with clients who are managing chronic pain of any kind. However, anyone looking for healthy muscles is welcome on my treatment table!
 
Types of treatments in myotherapy
A lot of people assume that myo only includes massage. But there's actually many different techniques used, depending on the client's needs. During an appointment, you may experience:

• Massage
• Myofascial release
• Trigger point work
• Dry needling
• Cupping
• Joint mobilisation
• Stretching
• Taping

 
You may also be prescribed some at-home exercises, stretches or other care. This is so that your muscles stay happier for longer!

Do you have questions about myotherapy?
Feel free to leave them below, or send me a message.
 
Ready to get your myotherapy on?
Head to the booking page and snag yourself an appointment.

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What to expect during your Myotherapy appointment

October 2, 2017, 1:32 pm

≫ Next: Which myotherapy treatment option is best for you?

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​If you've never seen a myotherapist before, it can be intimidating to go into your first appointment! But I promise I don't bite. If you're not sure what to expect, let's have a look at what you need to know about your myotherapy appointment.

Your First Myotherapy Appointment
Firstly, you'll find your way up to the clinic. Once I greet you in the waiting room, I'll ask you to fill out a form about your health history. In order to personalise your care, I'll need to know about any chronic conditions, injuries and other health history information.
 
For me to give you the safest, best care, I need to know:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• If you have had any major surgery in the past
• Any significant injuries, including broken bones, torn muscles, ligaments or tendons
• Any chronic injuries – even if it's small
• Conditions that you are being treated for, including diabetes, blood pressure and heart problems
• Any medications that you're taking - particularly pain medication and blood thinners

 
All of these factors can impact on which treatments are safe for your body. So please let me know before we commence!
 
Then, we'll head into my lovely little clinic room. We'll sit down and have a chat about what your goals are for the treatment.
 
Now it's time for treatment. I'll let you know which body parts I need exposed, and will pop out while you get changed. Then, I'll proceed with treating the areas you've told me about.
 
Your treatment will depend on your goals and health. Some of the treatments you might experience include:

• Massage
• Trigger point and myofascial release
• Mobilisation and stretching
• Cupping
• Dry needling
• Taping

 
If you're not sure about the treatment, just ask! I'm happy to explain to you what each treatment entails. But if you prefer to chat about your kids or your plans for the day, that's fine too.
 
At the end, we'll have a quick discussion about a care plan. I'll let you know if you need to do some at-home care, and when it's best to book in again. This all depends on what I've learned about your body throughout your treatment.
 
Your Follow Up Myotherapy Appointment
Your follow-up appointment will be a bit shorter, as I already know your health information. However, if you feel like you need some extra TLC, you can book a long follow-up.
 
Firstly, I'll ask about how you felt after your treatment. If you've had any improvements or setbacks, let me know! This helps me to tailor your treatment further. I'll also ask how your at-home exercises or stretches went if that was part of your care plan.
 
Then we'll jump straight into treatment from there. Again, this will depend on your needs. At the end, we'll review your care plan, and discuss any further treatment or at-home care.
 
What To Remember For Each Myotherapy Appointment

• Please bring any copies of new scans, x-rays, MRI reports or other data on your injury, so I know what's going on!
• Dress comfortably. Ideally, skip the tight jeans or restrictive clothing. As part of my job is to assess your body movements, it can be hard to do that if your clothes are restricting that movement! You want to wear clothes that you can move freely in.
• Let me know if there's any changes to your medications or health status. This includes pregnancy, illness, new medications or discontinuation of medications.

 
Still not sure about your myotherapy appointment? Send me a message and I can answer any questions you have.
 
Ready to book your first myotherapy appointment? Head to the booking page.

Which myotherapy treatment option is best for you?

October 15, 2017, 10:11 pm

≫ Next: 3 ways to reduce post-exercise soreness

≪ Previous: What to expect during your Myotherapy appointment

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Some therapists only offer one option for follow-up consultations. But I found that my clients had different needs. So I decided to offer 4 different options for follow-ups. But how do you know which myotherapy treatment suits your needs? Let's have a look at what they are, and who they suit.

Myotherapy Treatment Options
 
Initial appointment
The initial appointment is just what it sounds like! It's your introduction to the world of Simple Wellness Myotherapy, and myself of course.
 
If you've never visited me before, this is the treatment option for you. It's where we learn about each other, and how we can best work together.
 
For more information, have a quick look at what to expect in your appointment.
 
Length: 60 minutes, including approximately 10-15 minutes discussion
Best for: Everyone who is new to Simple Wellness Myotherapy!
 
Standard follow-up appointment
A standard follow-up may be a standard length, but you'll still be getting outstanding care! Most people will suit a standard follow-up appointment.
 
This myotherapy treatment option gives us a few minutes to discuss how you've been since your last treatment. Then, it's diving straight into some hands-on treatment.
 
Length: 50 minutes, including approximately 5 minutes discussion
Best for: Someone who would like ongoing care, and felt like their initial treatment was the right length for them.
 
Short follow-up appointment
There's nothing quite like a quickie – appointment that is. Sometimes, you just don't have the time to fit a full follow-up into the schedule. And that's ok – you can still get a quality session in. We'll have a quick chat to see where you're at, and then get down to treatment time.
 
Some people use short follow-up appointments for small, acute injuries. Others only have 30 minutes before they have to go and pick the kids up or head back to work. If that's you, the short length is ideal for your needs.
 
Length: 30 minutes, including approximately 5 minutes discussion
Best for: Someone who is short on time, or who has one specific area they want focused on.
 
Long follow-up appointment
Ready to really work out those kinks and get your body feeling better? The long follow-up might be just what you need.
 
We'll have a short discussion to decide where to focus. Then you'll be on the table for at least an hour of personalised treatment. Doesn't that sound like heaven?
 
This myotherapy treatment gives you plenty of time on the table, so I can work on multiple muscle groups. It's also a great choice for relieving stress and taking some quality time out for yourself.
 
Length: 80 minutes, including approximately 5-10 minutes discussion
Best for: Anyone with multiple areas of concern, or who are wanting a longer treatment time. People with complex medical issues or conditions may also like to book a longer appointment.
 
Taping only follow-up appointment
Kinesiotaping is a great pain reliever that lasts long after you’ve finished your appointment.
 
Its also a great way of extending the time between treatments, while providing a bit of extra support for sensitive joints.
 
This treatment is an assessment and taping only session.
 
Length: 10 minutes, approximately
Best for: Anyone with joint pain or instability. Athletes and sportspeople who need some extra support before an event.
 
Which myotherapy treatment option is best for you?
It really depends on your personal needs. If you're still not sure which appointment will suit you, send me a message and we'll discuss your options further.
 
Ready to book in your next myotherapy treatment?
Pop on over to the treatments & bookings page to book yourself in for an appointment.

3 ways to reduce post-exercise soreness

October 23, 2017, 2:15 am

≫ Next: The Best Myotherapy At-Home Care Tools To Try

≪ Previous: Which myotherapy treatment option is best for you?

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Do you experience post-exercise soreness? Does DOMS get you down?

Our muscles can only do so much before they need a bit of TLC. But today, I'm going to give you some tips on how to reduce the aches and pains caused by exercise.

.1. Stretch It Out
Stretching helps to relax muscles that are tight from exercise. Remember: stretches are best done when you're still warm – so use it as an exercise cool-down. You may also stretch during gentle exercise such as yoga.

Major muscle groups to stretch: quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, pecs, traps, calves, and anything that's sore

2. Roll It Out
Foam rolling is a cheap option that helps release trigger points. It's a great addition to a cool-down routine. Using a foam roller, you roll over the muscle until you find a tender spot. Gently roll over that spot until you feel relief.

Foam rolling is all about self-releasing the over-active muscles. By releasing the trigger points, it allows the muscles to relax, which means less soreness the next day.

Major muscle groups to roll: quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, lower back, middle and upper back, side of upper legs (IT band), inner thighs, and anything that's sore

3. Treat Yourself To A Treatment
If you experience constant post-exercise soreness, a myotherapist can help.

As a myotherapist, I can offer many treatments that can alleviate sore muscles. From massage and trigger point therapy to cupping and even taping, there's a solution for your pain.

Myotherapy works because it treats the muscle pain that may not respond to stretching or rolling. It's also much easier – and more enjoyable – to have someone treat your muscles for you. We all deserve a good massage!



Have a question about stretching, rolling or booking a treatment? I'd love to hear from you!


Are you local to Ferntree Gully and looking for a Personal Trainer? Courtney Taylor at Fitness Taylor'd For You runs regular boot camp classes in the Knox area. Thanks to Courtney and the boot camp class for the fun photo!

The Best Myotherapy At-Home Care Tools To Try

October 29, 2017, 7:53 pm

≫ Next: Why Pain Doesn't Equal Gain

≪ Previous: 3 ways to reduce post-exercise soreness

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Many therapists want you coming back time and time again forever. Not me! If there's something I can get you doing at home to help, I let you know. That's why I stock a few of my favourite at-home care tools in the clinic. By using these, you can help to take care of your own muscles each and every day.

​The Best At-Home Care Tools

The tool: Spiky ball
If you've been into my clinic room, you've seen these scary-looking little balls hiding in the corner! But they are actually my number one favourite tool for my clients – and myself.
 
What's it for:
It might look like a torture device, but it's actually sweet relief for many. For any niggly spots or trigger points, this colourful ball is the key to relieving tension.
 
How to use it:
Grab your ball. Use it to roll over a sore muscle until you feel a point of tension or a trigger point. Then, keep rolling on that spot until you feel your muscle relax.
 
Note: This should feel tender, but not like agony! If it's too sore, ease up a bit. Try rolling it over a clothed area if its too tender straight onto skin.

The tool: Foam roller
Everybody's least favourite post-exercise tool - the foam roller! If you go to the gym, they may already have a few of these laying around, otherwise they are usually cheap to buy from sports stores, or even Kmart!

What's it for:
The foam roller can be used in a similar way to the spiky ball, but its a broader area. Think big muscle groups, like hamstrings, quads, glutes and backs.

How to use it:
Time to get down on the floor and roll out those sore muscles. You can roll in one long movement, for example from your knee to your hip, or you can roll in sections. Just like the ball, when you find that tender spot stop there and let the pressure release the muscle for about 20 seconds or until you feel it relax.

Note: Foam rollers come in a heap of designs - if you're very pain sensitive, choose a roller that doesn't have any bumps or grooves on it. A smoother roller can be just as effective and much less painful.

The tool: Heat pack
There's something magically comforting about a heat pack on a cold night. But these aren't just about comfort – they can also be therapeutic.
 
What's it for:
The idea of a heat pack is to increase circulation to an area. This might be good for areas of poor circulation, or to help warm up a tight, cold muscle. It's generally recommended for chronic muscle pain and sore joints.
 
How to use it:
Heat in a microwave for 1-2 minutes (check the label for guidance). Place on the area that needs a little TLC. Make sure it's a comfortable temperature. And then – relax!
 
Note: You should be careful if you have nerve impairment, as there is a risk of burning. Do not use it within the first 48hrs of an injury unless instructed by your practitioner.

The tool: Resistance band
Getting the 80s vibe from these bad boys is pretty common! But don't fear, you don't need to don the lycra to benefit from them.
 
What's it for:
You don't need bulky weights to build muscle. Resistance bands can help you to build and maintain muscle strength gently. This is great for people who are rehabilitating joints or are just beginning with strength building.
 
How to use it:
It depends on the exercise you need to do. The general idea is to find a way to make the band gently resist your body movement. If you don't have set movements prescribed, I can teach you an easy at-home exercise routine personalised to your needs.
 
Note: There are different levels of resistance available. So if you're not sure what level is right to you, let me know. You can even have a quick try and see what feels right!
 
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Do these sound like tools you need to try? The next time you come in for an appointment, you can pick one – or more – up!
 
If you're still not sure which is best for you, send me a message and we can chat further.

Why Pain Doesn't Equal Gain

November 8, 2017, 12:58 pm

≫ Next: Whats the difference between Myotherapy and Remedial Massage?

≪ Previous: The Best Myotherapy At-Home Care Tools To Try

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​Is myotherapy painful if it's done 'right'? Should massage hurt in order to be effective? These are the sorts of things I get asked all the time. As a practitioner with a strong interest in the world of chronic pain, I get very passionate about this topic. So apologies for the rant ahead!

The myth
Somewhere along the line, people started to equate pain and gain. It's in the workplace, in the gym, and now even on the treatment table.
 
There are many who think a 'good' massage or myotherapy treatment should make them wince. They think that:

• In order to 'cure' pain, you need to inflict it
• Deep tissue work requires pressure to the point of pain
• Gentle bodywork doesn't achieve the best outcome for your muscles

 
But is this really the case?
 
The reality
Does pain really equal gain? I don't think so – particularly not for people already in pain.
 
If you're already experiencing pain, your nervous system is already on overload. And that means you're already vulnerable to more pain. Pain is not a healthy thing in large amounts!
 
In fact, when your body experiences pain, you'll have:

• Higher level of stress hormones
• Greater fluctuations in blood sugar levels
• Higher levels of fatigue
• A greater inflammatory load throughout the body
• More essential nutrients used up

 
I don't know about you. But I think that if you walk out of a chronic pain treatment with more inflammation, fewer nutrients and more stress – it might not be a good choice for your healing.
 
On the other hand, a gentle treatment that lowers stress hormones and inflammation might be just what you need.
 
Can you have a pain-free treatment?
I believe that you can have a low-pain, if not completely pain-free myotherapy treatment. There's a few ways you can make sure that this happens:

1. Find a practitioner who understands hypersensitivity and chronic pain. These practitioners are the ones who have worked hard to learn how to treat your pain. I'm proud to be a practitioner for chronic pain clients, and continue to study to learn how to best help them.
2. Communicate, communicate, communicate! While it's true that your myotherapist can sometimes spot the physical reaction to pain, it's not a guarantee. So if something hurts – speak up! Let your myotherapist know what hurts where, and what it feels like.
3. Keep breathing. By keeping your breaths long and deep, you can switch the dominant nervous system from sympathetic (fight-or-flight) to parasympathetic (rest-and-digest). It keeps your body calm, and reduces the likelihood of pain.

 
You might still experience some sensations like tenderness on trigger points, or mild discomfort during a stretch. But that's not quite the same as pain – I'll explain in a later post.
 
Are you still worried about pain during a treatment? I want to hear your concerns and let you know how I can help. Send me a message, and we can talk about how to keep you pain-free.
 
Ready to get yourself a gentle AND effective treatment for your pain? Pop on over to the booking page to get started.

Whats the difference between Myotherapy and Remedial Massage?

November 20, 2017, 12:28 pm

≫ Next: ahm Health Insurance rebates for Myotherapy and Remedial Massage

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This is one of those questions I get asked really often.
Myotherapy is still a fairly new term in the health world, its been picking up in popularity in Australia over the last 15 years or so.
My path into Myotherapy began in Remedial Massage, and I see a lot of similarities between the two modalities, as well as the differences.

The Similarities

• Both are hands on physical treatments that move and manipulate soft tissue to relieve pain.
• Techniques used by both Myotherapists and Remedial Massage therapists include massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and stretching.
• Both can be used for preventative care and to maintain good muscle health.
• Most private health funds provide rebates for both Myotherapy and Remedial Massage - and some health funds give you a separate limit for each! We're with Frank Health Insurance, and our plan gives us $300 per year in Myotherapy and $300 per year in Remedial Massage! Winner!!

The Differences

• A Myotherapy treatment includes a more extensive initial assessment, including your health history, doing special tests, forming a clinical impression and developing a treatment plan to specifically resolve your pain.
• Myotherapy includes additional techniques like dry needling, cupping, kinesiotaping, muscle energy techniques, joint mobilisation, and corrective exercise prescription.
• A Myotherapy treatment is usually for a specific injury, pain or muscular dysfunction - for example, a sharp pain when you raise your left arm or sciatic pain in the right leg, rather than a full body treatment.
• Myotherapists have extra study time under their belt, including pain science, neurophysiology, advanced clinical reasoning and more. Myotherapists have either an Advanced Diploma or a Bachelor Degree.

A Myotherapist is a great option if you have an injury, a specific pain area, a recurring or severe pain, or a condition that requires more in depth knowledge and training. Plus a lot of Myotherapists, like myself, came into Myotherapy through a Remedial Massage background. By seeing a Myo for your pain you are likely to get a great range of techniques that feel good and are effective at relieving your pain.

For more widespread aches, pains and tension that are a little annoying but not stopping you from getting on with your day, a Remedial Massage can do the trick.
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If you have a question, I'd love to answer it! Drop me a line, or feel free to call in in person to the clinic at Balanced Life Health Care in Ferntree Gully.

Would you like to get your treatment plan started? Book your first appointment online.

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ahm Health Insurance rebates for Myotherapy and Remedial Massage

November 24, 2017, 2:02 am

≫ Next: Sore Wrists? Here’s A Simple Exercise To Help

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Good news, ahm Health Insurance members!

After the dramas of moving clinic, ahm Health Insurance have got my provider registration reconnected to the HICAPS machine!!

That means that you can get your rebates on the spot for your Myotherapy or Remedial Massage treatment.

I think that's now all the health funds back up and running! What a relief!!

Sore Wrists? Here’s A Simple Exercise To Help

December 4, 2017, 5:00 am

≫ Next: Is your neck the source of your aches?

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Recently, more clients have been telling me they’ve experienced pain or discomfort in the wrist area. They come from all walks of life – mums, office workers, self-employed or even retired clients. Although there are many different causes of pain in the wrist area, many improve using one little trick I use

Why wrist pain occurs
Wrist pain can be all too common these days. Many of us use computers and smartphones that can increase the chance of wrist strain.
However, there are other conditions that can impact, too. Repetitive use is a common issue in the wrists and hands, leading to repetitive strain injuries. Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause pins and needles, numbness and pain in the wrist. Arthritis can show up in the wrists. Even tennis elbow can extend into the wrist, causing discomfort.

It’s quite common for people to have weaker muscles around the hands and wrists. We’re not having to climb rocky mountains and swing through the trees anymore, so most of us don’t maintain the strength in our wrists and hands.
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Wrist pain could present in:

• The forearms on either or both sides
• In the wrist joint itself
• In the fleshy portion of the palm, just above the wrist
• Into the fingers and thumb
• Or all of the above

Every case of wrist pain is individual. So the treatment needs to be personalised. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t little tricks to ease the pain in the meantime.

How to relieve wrist pain
For the majority of wrist pain cases, you want to strengthen the muscles in the wrist and hands. The stronger the muscles, the more strain they can take without pain. Strong muscles will also protect the joints from damage.
That’s why I recommend this simple exercise to strengthen the smaller muscles in the arm. Combined with a personalised treatment plan, it can help to relieve discomfort in the wrist area.

The exercise
To do this exercise, all you need is an elastic band or rubber band – or even a hair tie will do the trick.
On one hand, bring your fingers together until they are touching. Wrap the band around all of the fingers (even the thumb!)
Then slowly open and close your hand, so the band stretches with your finger movement.
The key here is movement with control in both directions. Try opening your fingers outwards for a count of 3 seconds, then hold for 1-2 seconds, and then – the hard bit – closing your fingers slowly over 3 seconds.
​Because of the resistance of the rubber band, your fingers might want to snap back to the starting position. The best results from this exercise come from slow controlled movement.

PS - It should take a little effort, and give a stretch or even a bit of an ache, but not cause any acute pain. If it does cause sharp pain, stop!
 
This is just one of the home exercises that may help your pain. To get a personalised treatment and exercise plan, pop over and book a session with me today.

Please note: This exercise is a tool, and is no substitute for an assessment by a qualified practitioner! If you’re experiencing unexplained wrist pain, seek out a professional opinion.

Is your neck the source of your aches?

December 13, 2017, 5:00 am

≫ Next: Are your shoes hurting you?

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The human body is complex – pain isn’t always where we think it is. With referred pain, we feel pain in one spot, but the actual issue is somewhere else. One of the most common spots that can cause referred pain is the neck. Let’s have a look at why your neck might be the source of some of the pain you feel.

Why the neck impacts so much
So why is the neck capable of causing referred pain? A lot of what it comes down to is that the neck is part of the spine, which is where most of the central nervous system is situated. The CNS is made up of the spine and brain, and is where all of the pain we experience is processed – whether it’s muscular or nerve related.
This area is particularly vulnerable to degeneration and damage to the vertebrae that protect the spine. This sort of damage can lead to nerve impingement and inflammation that triggers the nerve. That then can lead to pain being experienced anywhere along the length of that nerve.
However, there is also the lifestyle impact on the neck. Check in right now – how are you holding your neck? Chances are, you’re hunched over your phone, or slumped in front of a computer. And that can lead to muscle strain around the neck area. Because the muscles around the neck connect to many other major muscle groups of the body, it can lead to other muscles hurting due to overcompensation.
These are just a few of the reasons why your neck might be the origin of your pain.
Pains that might be neck related
You might be feeling pain. But what sorts of pains can be related to problems in the neck? Common issues might include:
·       Headaches
·       Migraines
·       Shoulder pain
·       Arm pain
·       Upper back pain
·       Mid back pain
·       Full length back pain
·       Chest pain (muscular)
Simple neck stretches to try
Sometimes, the neck just needs a little bit of TLC to feel better. For some gentle relief, try these simple neck stretches when you’re feeling sore.
·       Move your head up and down slowly. Move up until you feel a gentle stretch, and then down until you feel a stretch. Go a little bit further each time as your muscles stretch out and relax.
·       Move your head from side to side, with your ear coming down towards your shoulder. Again, move to one side until you feel a gentle stretch, and then to the other until stretching. No cheating - make the movement come from your neck, not from your shoulder raising upwards.
·       Gently circle your head. Alternate between clockwise and counter-clockwise. If one spot feels good to stretch – pause for a few moments at that spot, then continue.
 
Neck pain – wherever it ends up – doesn’t disappear overnight. If you have ongoing neck problems, your best bet is a treatment plan personalised to your body’s needs. Book in your initial appointment today, and we can get you back on track to feeling great.

Are your shoes hurting you?

December 19, 2017, 5:00 am

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As we get into the party season over summer, you’ll be wearing heels and thongs instead of runners. But if you find that you start to get more aches and pains, your shoe choice might be to blame.

How shoes affect posture
The way that our feet hit the ground when we move has a massive impact on the joints and muscles of the body. And that means it affects our posture.
When we wear heels, for example, our bodies tilt forward. The body tries to compensate in response, but the muscles and joints cop the strain. The weight of your body is held on the balls of your feet, instead of balanced between the balls and the heels. Your knees and hips move forward and your back flexes backward to maintain balance.
Flats might not have the height issue, but they can also impact on the body. Flat shoes cause the weight to be mostly on the heels, so the lower body tries to compensate so we don’t fall backwards. Wearing flats constantly can mean our posterior chain – including the calves, hamstrings and glutes – can weaken from lack of use.
Even thongs (or flip-flops, for non -Aussie consumers) can cause postural issues. They have been found to cause pain in the feet and even hips and lower back, due to the lack of support and altered gait (how you walk when wearing them). The real issue is that you have to grip the shoe with your toes, so they are overworked.
Pain that can occur
So if your shoes are altering the posture of your body, pain can often follow. Incorrect shoes can lead to issues including:

• Foot pain
• Ankle pain
• Calf pain
• Shin pain
• Knee pain
• Thigh pain – both quads and hamstrings
• Back pain
• Hip pain

Basically, any pain in the lower body may be related to shoes. And this pain can lead to imbalances and pain throughout the entire body. So the wrong shoes could be causing you more trouble than what you realise.
How to reduce it
I’m sure all myotherapists and bodyworkers would prefer everyone wear sensible shoes 24-7! But that’s easier said than done. So if you think your shoes are potentially causing issues, here’s some small tweaks to reduce the issues:

• Do some calf stretches after wearing heels for any period of time. Flex your toes up towards your nose, until you feel a gentle stretch. This helps to stretch out the calves.
• If you’re wearing cute flats, do a mix of calve raises and calf stretches afterwards. Flex your toes up towards your nose until it stretches, then go up onto your tip-toes for a couple of seconds. You can easily do this on a step – stand on the edge of the step with your arches and heels not contacting the step, then raise up and hold for the count of 3 seconds, then lower down so your heels are below the step level and hold for the count of 3 seconds. Repeat 10-20 times.
• Living in thongs? Try stretching out your toes. Lace your fingers through your toes, and gently stretch forward and back. This stretch works great for any time your feet are tender.
• Make sure you’re wearing the right size shoe. Many of us are guilty of buying cute shoes on sale in the wrong size. But this can make the problem worse. Your foot will be held awkwardly to compensate for wearing the wrong size, and sore muscles aren’t far behind.
• Go for lower heels, or wear wedges. They will still cause some pain in the long-term, but far less than the teetering 6+ inch heels.
• Keep flats handy if you’re out at a party in heels. This way, you can switch when your feet get achey, instead of hobbling home.
• A spiky massage ball can be a great way to ease foot pain after being on your feet for a long time. Just roll the sole of your foot over the ball with an amount of pressure that feels good to you!

 
Not ready to give up your heels or cute flats? I don’t blame you! So instead, let’s work together to counteract the muscle imbalances. Pop in for a 30 minute appointment, and we can get you back to feeling good.

Christmas Clinic Hours

December 23, 2017, 5:00 am

≫ Next: ​Self-Care For The New Year – Tips From 3 Health Experts

≪ Previous: Are your shoes hurting you?

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Merry Christmas!
What a year 2017 has been!!
I'm lucky enough to be taking 2 weeks off for the end of year break.

Christmas Clinic Hours
Simple Wellness Myotherapy is closed from Dec 23rd-Jan 7th.
Back to normal clinic hours from Monday 8th January 2018!

Do you need to see someone urgently? Dr Nathan Petridis, our Chiropractor at Balanced Life Health Care, will be available for chiropractic appointments all throughout the Christmas break (except for the public holidays!) Book a time with him through the Balanced Life Health Care website.
​
Have a happy and safe Christmas and New Years! See you in 2018!
​Mel x

​Self-Care For The New Year – Tips From 3 Health Experts

December 28, 2017, 11:00 pm

≫ Next: Getting healthy in the New Year? How myotherapy can help

≪ Previous: Christmas Clinic Hours

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If there’s one resolution to make in the New Year, it’s to boost your self-care. To help you do just that, I’ve asked two of my fellow practitioners to share their tips, as well as a couple of my own.
Self-care is an ongoing journey. But by taking small steps each day, you can feel better.

Sam’s Top Tips For Self-Care

1. Get to know what you’re eating, and how it makes you feel. Diet is an incredibly individual factor in wellbeing. So record what you eat, and how you feel afterwards. You should be feeling energised, not fatigued.
2. Increase your intake of anti-inflammatory foods. These are not only tasty, but can also have benefits for your body if it’s sore or painful. Green leafy vegetables, dark chocolate and oily fish are a good starting point.
3. Get short bursts of sunlight exposure in the middle of the day. This is when there are more UV rays that boost vitamin D production, and less that are linked to melanoma. Even 5 minutes in summer can get you a healthy dose of immune-boosting vitamin D.

About Sam: Sam is a qualified nutritionist, health writer and wellness speaker. She is passionate about personalised nutrition and living a thriving life.

Emily’s Top Tips For Self-Care

1. Feel like you indulged a little too much over Christmas? Herbs like dandelion and rosemary can support your liver. Try them in a tea to enhance your natural detoxification processes.
2. Bloated all the time? Time to look to your digestive health. A personalised plan is best, but you can start by adding in foods with probiotics like kombucha and sauerkraut. Good bacteria in the gut will help to rebalance your tummy health and flatten the belly naturally.
3. Do you need your morning coffees and your nightly wines? So many of us run on empty, and have forgotten how it feels to be energetic and vibrant. When we’re tired, our bodies are telling us we need something. Rest, nutrients, sunshine and play are our most common needs – so get a dose of each every day.

About Emily: Emily is a qualified naturopath who works with me at Balanced Life Health Care. Her passions include preventative medicine, health promotion, and working within a system that addresses the root causes of illness.

Mel’s Top Tips For Self-Care

1. Make time for rest and relaxation. Your body, including your muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints, all need a break! So even if it’s just 30 minutes per week for a delicious Epsom salt bath, take that time.
2. Stretch it out! A few minutes dedicated to stretching each day can make a huge difference in your body function and feeling. At the end of the day, stretch your neck out a bit, do some shoulder shrugs and arm circles, and give the calves a flex. Strong, flexible muscles are happy muscles.
3. Upgrade your massages. Sure, getting a quick massage at your local shopping centre might be convenient, but there’s no guarantee you’ll enjoy it! Your body will thank you if you invest in a session with a qualified practitioner. As you know, my motto is no pain, all gain!

 
Is self-care on your priority list for 2018? Let us make it easier for you!
Emily and I have teamed up to create a Balanced Life Package to get you off on the right foot for 2018. You can get a 60 minute naturopathy appointment and a 60 minute myotherapy session for just $150 – saving you $60!
To learn more or book your appointment, send through a message today.

Getting healthy in the New Year? How myotherapy can help

January 2, 2018, 6:59 pm

≫ Next: Combining therapies gets you healthier. Here’s how!

≪ Previous: ​Self-Care For The New Year – Tips From 3 Health Experts

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It’s a new year, and that means we’re all ready to get healthier. But did you know that myotherapy can help you to achieve some of your goals? Let’s look at why regular myotherapy might be a good addition to your New Year’s Resolutions.

Myotherapy aids in recovery from exercise
A lot of people hit the gym or sign up with a personal trainer in the New Year. Unfortunately, you can start off with a lot of enthusiasm – and that means a lot of pain during recovery. Often this can lead to you giving up after just a week or two, as it becomes too painful.

The good news is recovery doesn’t have to suck! A myotherapy treatment, particularly early on, can boost your muscle’s recovery time. This means that your muscles will hurt less, recover quickly, and move the way they should. And that means you can get back into the gym sooner and achieve your goals!

I recommend:
Fortnightly or monthly treatments for the first 3 months of an exercise program
Maintenance with sessions every 4-8 weeks, depending on how you feel

Myotherapy is a good form of self-care
Is adulting on your list for the New Year? More of us are realising that preventative is the way to go with our health. That is where myotherapy can be a good investment in your long-term health.

When your body functions properly, you function properly. Healthy muscles and joints mean less pain, more energy and the freedom to do the things you want to do.

How much more adult-y would you be if you didn’t have to deal with aching shoulders and a stiff sore neck? Put it on your non-negotiable list. Your muscles will thank you.

I recommend:
Maintenance with sessions every 4-8 weeks, depending on how you feel

Myotherapy can be a great treat
More and more, people are understanding how important it is to treat yourself. And the best treat is one that improves your health, instead of deteriorating it!

You won’t get bloated, feel hungover or get sugar cravings when you get a myotherapy treatment. What you will be is feeling good within your body, because your muscles will be happier and healthier.

So why not make the most of your health insurance and get a session that makes you feel good from the inside out?

I recommend:
Treating yourself at least 4 times per year – after all, you deserve a good treatment! The more often you can make time, the better you’ll feel.

Ready to get your body happy and healthy? Make sure you book in for your January appointments here. Spots are filling up fast!

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Combining therapies gets you healthier. Here’s how!

January 9, 2018, 2:08 pm

≫ Next: Taping for Pain and Injuries

≪ Previous: Getting healthy in the New Year? How myotherapy can help

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You might love your myotherapy sessions – in fact, I hope you do! But I never pretend that myotherapy is the be-all and end-all of healthcare. I’m an advocate for a holistic approach to your health. So today, I wanted to share some reasons why combining myotherapy with other therapies can help you to be your healthiest self.

Combining therapies helps identify problem areas
I’m trained to spot health conditions related to the muscles, joints and bones. But other therapists are trained to spot issues elsewhere.
 
By seeing more than one practitioner, we can work together to make sure we oversee your health in a holistic way. Often, teamwork is a more effective way to spot potential problems and address them before they get worse.
 
Combining therapies ensures you have the support you need
Looking after your muscles is important, especially if you have a chronic condition. But if you do have a chronic condition, it’s more than just your muscles that need support. When you add in another therapy, you can look after more aspects of your wellbeing.
 
Combining therapies has a complementary effect
Different therapies can work together to bring around a better outcome. For example, I can work the knots out of your muscles every session. But if they are stress-related, you might want to work with a naturopath and/or counsellor to work on a stress management program. That way, the benefits of my treatments will last longer for you.
 
Combining therapies offers better education about your health
Therapists are experts within their field. I can explain your muscles to you until I’m blue in the face. But other practitioners can give you insights into other aspects of wellbeing. The more you learn about your body and your health, the easier it is for you to keep healthy and happy.
 
Combining therapies is preventative care
Prevention is always better than treating a problem. The best way to prevent ill health is to actively work on it with a team of health experts. Seeing more than one practitioner means that you’re covering more bases with prevention.
 
Practitioners I love working with
I’m happy to work with anyone who is on your healthcare team! You may have different practitioners, depending on what support you need. But I love seeing my clients working with:

• A naturopath or nutritionist
• An acupuncturist
• A chiropractor
• A psychologist or counsellor
• Yoga/pilates/meditation instructors
• Personal trainers
• Their GP

 
If you have a quality healthcare team you work well with, you will get the best healthcare available – it’s that simple!
 
Did you know that we have specials in the clinic for those who see two or more practitioners on the same day? You get 20% off both treatments by booking them together.
Chiropractic is a great combination with your Myotherapy treatment - our recommendation is to have the Myo treatment first to loosen up the muscles, then have the adjustment done.
​You can also choose to pair your Myo treatment with Naturopathy (great for gut health, weight loss, and general health) or Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (great for many conditions, and our Acupuncturist, Lauren, has a special interest in womens health and fertility treatment)

You can book your appointments together online, or call me on 0401212934 so I can help you find a time that suits you best.

Taping for Pain and Injuries

January 16, 2018, 10:18 pm

≫ Next: ‘Mild’ Isn’t Always Mild When It Comes To Pain

≪ Previous: Combining therapies gets you healthier. Here’s how!

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​Taping – The Whys And Hows
One of the coolest tools for supporting your muscles (or at least I think it’s cool!) is taping.
Let’s have a look at what taping is, what it can help, and if it’s right for you.

What is taping?
Put simply, taping is when we use a specially designed tape to support your muscles and/or joints. It’s not a treatment to use in place of your healthcare practitioner. But it is a tool that we use to help support your body between treatments.

What can taping help with?
It has a variety of applications! As a myotherapist, I use taping to:
 Stabilise joints that are injured or weak
 Increase proprioception, or location awareness, of the body part
 Aid in recovery from acute and chronic injury
 Reduce fluid and swelling in an injured body part
 Enhance athletic performance and prevent injuries
It can be helpful for a variety of people, from athletes to people with chronic pain and those with an acute injury.

What types of tapes are there?
There are two main types of tape that I use in the clinic: rigid tape and kinesiotape.
Rigid tape is just what it sounds like. The goal is to hold the joint in a specific position for a period of time so that it is able to recover.
Kinesiotape is a newer kind of tape that moulds to the skin and moves with the body. It is less restrictive, and is helpful for many applications.
It’s particularly useful for helping people to be aware of how they are holding their body.
When we’re injured, we tend to hold ourselves wherever is least painful – but that’s not always the best location for recovery! This tape helps you to be aware of that, so you can correct it.
Kinesiotaping also has a pain reducing effect by applying a constant stimulation to the skin. Its applied with the tight muscle in a stretched position, so that when you return to your normal posture the tape holds the muscle slightly stretched. You might see or feel the tape pucker - that is what its designed to do!

Can I do my own taping?
I’m not your mum. If you want to DIY your taping, that’s up to you. But there are benefits to getting it done professionally:
1. You get taped with high quality tape
2. If it’s a repeat taping, I will quickly reassess to see whether a different taping technique may be better – for example, I might use rigid tape for the first taping, then switch to kinesiotaping. I might even use both!
3. I make sure that the injured part is positioned correctly
4. You don’t have to tape yourself one-handed, or twist around to tape anywhere on your back half!

Taping aftercare
There are things you can do to make sure your tape lasts and your skin stays happy:
 To make sure tape adheres properly, it’s best to avoid exercise or showering for 1-2 hours after taping.
 Although you can shower with your tape, it’s best to let it dry properly. Otherwise, it might get a bit smelly! Pat it dry rather than rubbing it with the towel so the ends don't come up.
 If the ends do come up, theres a few things you can do. The Kinesiotape is heat activated, so usually giving it a quick rub to get heat back into the tape will get it sticking again. If the tape is only coming up a little at the ends but won't stick back down, putting a bandaid over the top to hold the end down can give your tape a little extra life. If its coming up a lot, trim the tape (or ask someone to help you trim it)
 When removing tape, take your time! Some people can have fragile skin that is inflamed or may even tear when removed too quickly. Slowly remove the tape in the direction of your hair growth (otherwise you might get an accidental wax effect!)
 If your tape is stuck fast, use oil to dissolve the stickiness - even cooking oil from your kitchen can do the trick! Some clients also remove it in a hot shower for the same reason.
 When you remove your tape, leave the skin to recover for a day or two before re-taping. Otherwise, your skin is at risk of being damaged.

Do your joints need some taping support, but you don’t want a full myotherapy appointment every week? Never fear! For current clients, I offer a taping service – you pop in, and I’ll get you taped up for just $25. You can get re-taped between regular appointments, AND you can still claim it on your health insurance! To book in your slot, contact me directly or call 0401212934.

‘Mild’ Isn’t Always Mild When It Comes To Pain

January 23, 2018, 9:20 pm

≫ Next: ​Is It Muscle Or Nerve? Know Your Pain

≪ Previous: Taping for Pain and Injuries

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There is a myth that I need to clear up. Sometimes, when you have chronic pain or a health condition, you’ll be diagnosed as ‘mild’. This might make you feel like your pain experience doesn’t match your diagnosis! So I want to explain the problem here.

Why you might be classified as ‘mild’
From a medical perspective, you might be classified as mild. Health practitioners don’t diagnose you off your experience, because we can’t really measure that.
 
Instead, it can be a bit of a maths equation. It might include the number of symptoms, the severity of those symptoms, the level of disability that you experience and the physical damage or severity that can be measured. Every condition has different measures, so there might be other factors as well.
 
So for example, if you experience daily chronic pain, but you can still work, you don’t have additional symptoms and there is minimal damage to the tissues, you might be considered mild.
 
You might not feel like that pain is mild! And it’s not. Chronic pain of any level is still painful. It doesn’t mean that your pain isn’t ‘bad’ enough. Being in pain sucks, no matter who you are or what your diagnosis.
 
If this is something that you’ve come across, here are some ways that you can take action and turn it around:
 
Ask your professional for explanation
When you see your health practitioner, ask them why you are given a mild diagnosis. If you have a good health care team, they will happily explain to you the reason.
 
By understanding more about your condition, you will feel more empowered. But by asking about it, you also won’t feel like your health team is underestimating your experience. And that can make a big difference for your mental and physical wellbeing.
 
Track your symptoms
If you feel like you still don’t fit the ‘mild’ diagnosis, keep a tracker of your symptoms. Sometimes, when you experience chronic pain, you can get some pretty nasty brain fog! So you might forget symptoms you’ve had that could change it.
 
Remember: your experience is still valid
No matter what label is placed on your condition, how you feel is still important. I have clients with ‘mild’ conditions, but they have still experienced terrible symptoms.
 
To me, it’s more important to help you feel better in your body than to treat a condition. After all, it’s the only home you have in this lifetime.
 
 
Want to work with a myotherapist that understands that mild doesn’t mean mild? At Simple Wellness Myotherapy, I focus on working with those who experience chronic pain and conditions. We work with your body to get it functioning as best it can. To book your appointment, pop over here.

​Is It Muscle Or Nerve? Know Your Pain

January 30, 2018, 5:00 am

≫ Next: Is Your Back Pain Really Coming From Your Back?

≪ Previous: ‘Mild’ Isn’t Always Mild When It Comes To Pain

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Pain is sucky – no matter what it is. But sometimes it’s good to know your pain, so you know how urgently you need to act on it. One of the most common questions about pain is how can you tell if it’s muscle pain or nerve pain?
 
The best option is always to ask someone who can check for you – like me! But there are some ways you might be able to tell the difference.

Muscle Pain
It’s pretty common to experience muscle pain. It might be as subtle as an ache after a workout, or it could be agony if you’ve torn a muscle. The way to recognise muscle pain is that it is generally:

• Over a large area – for example, your back or your lower leg
• Less defined – you can’t point to one spot that really hurts, because it’s generalised to a large area
• A sensation of aching and throbbing

 
Nerve Pain
Nerve pain is usually of greater concern, as your nerves hurting is a sign that something is compressing or impinging a nerve somewhere in the body. If you’re experiencing nerve pain, it is generally:

• Located over a smaller area
• A sharp, shooting sensation
• Able to cause burning or weakness in the affected area
• Pain that can cause loss of movement or function

 
The two types of pain can exist separately, or you might experience a mix of both. But both are a sign that the body is not happy with something.
 
I’m In Pain Right Now. What Can I Do To Relieve It?
Pain is a signal that lets you know something might not be right and needs protection. If it’s a mild pain, there’s no need to panic. But if it’s unexpected pain, nerve pain or related to a chronic condition, your first step is to book in with your practitioner. Getting treatment right away helps to reduce your pain quicker. Your practitioner can advise you on some safe at home care practices, but if you can't get a booking at short notice there are still steps you can take.

Whether its muscle or nerve pain, the basic DIY first aid for your pain is the same. So until you are able to get it looked after, you should:

• Rest the affected area – avoid strenuous movement and exercise
• Compress the area comfortably with a bandage if its a new injury
• Elevate the affected area if it feels swollen or inflamed. That means foot up for leg, hand up for arm

 
These will help to ease the pain and prevent further damage until you’re able to get in and get it checked out properly.
 
You’ll see that I didn’t include ice in there. There is emerging research that shows that ice may not always be the best option for treating injuries and pain. So if you want to add on some temperature relief, it’s up to you – you might feel like ice gives you some relief, or you might prefer a heat pack, or you may find best relief using an alternating combination of the two. Once I’ve assessed your pain, I will let you know which might be better for you.

The guide below is a quick way of doing the investigative work on whether your pain is muscle or nerve related, but its always best to consult with a health professional rather than trusting good old Doctor Google.

You don’t have to just grit your teeth through any sort of pain. As a qualified myotherapist, I can help to relieve your symptoms and get you back on track to health. So book in an appointment today – you won’t regret it!

Is Your Back Pain Really Coming From Your Back?

February 6, 2018, 8:06 pm

≫ Next: Myotherapy And Acute Sports Injuries

≪ Previous: ​Is It Muscle Or Nerve? Know Your Pain

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Your back is aching again. You assume that you slept wrong, or have been sitting for too long with your back in a poor posture. But what if the pain is actually coming from elsewhere?

Back pain might not be in your back
The body is a complex thing! Every muscle, tendon and ligament is connected to different areas of the body. So just because you feel pain somewhere, doesn’t mean that is where the problem lies. In fact, it’s often the muscles that are overcompensating for weakness elsewhere that get sore.
 
So let’s have a look at a few causes behind your back pain that aren’t your back.
 
A weak core
The “core” muscles are more than just your abs! In fact, the core is made up of many muscle groups, including your superficial abs, deep abs, obliques, back muscles and pelvic muscles.
 
Often, if you have a generally weak or imbalanced core, it can lead to one part of the core – the back muscles – to take on more strain. And this means pain.
 
Try: Talking to a personal trainer for a personalised program to strengthen your core muscles. Better yet, see your friendly local myotherapist who can assess which muscles need strengthening!
 
Weak or tight front chain
For those who aren’t up on anatomy lingo, the “front chain” is a chain of muscles that run down the front of the body. This chain, also called the anterior chain, is made up of muscles like your chest muscles, abdominals, quads and shin muscles. We also have a posterior chain, which includes the back.
 
These two chains need to be balanced in order for the body to work optimally. If one is tight, the other gets stretched out, and if one is weak, the other picks up the slack. So when the front chain is weak or tight, the back is one of the muscle groups to cop the strain.
 
Try: Balancing out your workout and stretches. Both the front and posterior chains need to be exercised AND stretched out to keep the body in balance.
 
Hips and pelvis
It’s all in the hips! Or at least, it might be. As mentioned, the pelvis plays a part in core strength. So if it’s out of alignment, so is the rest of your body.
 
If the muscles in the hips and pelvis are too tight, pain can radiate up the back. Or if they are out of alignment and muscles are weak, the back will pick up the slack.
 
Try: Using a foam roller to release tight hip muscles. It will probably hurt – but you’ll feel better afterwards!
 
No matter where your back pain is coming from, I’m here to help. To get your body balanced again, book in for an appointment, and we’ll put together a plan that addresses the issue.