Stress and Anxiety

Myotherapists are primarily trained to assess and treat musculoskeletal conditions, so their role in managing stress and anxiety is collaborative with your mental health professional. Your Myotherapist can play an important complementary role in stress and anxiety management by reducing associated pain.

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Here's how your Myotherapist may assess and treat stress and anxiety from a musculoskeletal perspective:

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Assessment:

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Patient History: Your Myotherapist will start by discussing your symptoms and medical history, including any stress or anxiety-related issues you may be experiencing. Understanding the context and triggers for your symptoms is essential.

 

Physical Examination: Your Myotherapist will perform a physical assessment to identify areas of muscle tension, tightness, and discomfort. Stress and anxiety often manifest as muscle tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders, upper back, and jaw.

 

Range of Motion: Your Myotherapist may assess your range of motion in affected areas to identify restrictions and areas of muscle tightness.

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Treatment:

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Massage and Soft Tissue Techniques: Your Myotherapist may use massage techniques, deep tissue treatment, cupping and stretching to release muscle tension and promote relaxation. This can provide immediate relief from physical symptoms associated with stress and anxiety.

 

Trigger Point Therapy: Your Myotherapist may employ trigger point therapy to locate and address specific trigger points (muscle knots) that can contribute to pain and muscle tension.

 

Myofascial Release: Your Myotherapist may use myofascial release techniques to address fascial restrictions and improve overall muscle and tissue function.

 

Stretching Exercises: Your Myotherapist can provide stretching exercises that you can perform at home to maintain muscle flexibility and reduce tension.

 

Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: Your Myotherapist may teach basic breathing and relaxation exercises that can help manage stress and anxiety in the moment.

 

Posture and Ergonomic Advice: Poor posture can exacerbate stress-related muscle tension. Your Myotherapist can offer guidance on improving posture and ergonomics in daily activities.

 

Self-Care Recommendations: Your Myotherapist can provide self-care recommendations, such as heat or cold therapy, hydration, lifestyle modifications and strategies for managing stress-related muscle tension.

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It's important to understand that your Myotherapist is not a replacement for a mental health professional, when it comes to addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of stress and anxiety. If you are experiencing severe or chronic stress and anxiety, it's crucial to seek support from a qualified mental health therapist who specialises in these areas. Your GP is a great starting point if you are seeking further help in this area.