Pain and discomfort are complex phenomena that can be caused by various activities and illnesses [1], [2]. They may last for differing periods of time: come on suddenly (acute); or, can develop over a long period of time (chronic); or, suddenly increase during long term pain (acute on chronic) [2]. The sensation and degree of pain is often unique and particular to the individual. It can depend on the type of ailment, genetics, environmental factors and mental wellbeing [1]. Many of these factors can also have a significant impact on the effectiveness of healing and recovery [1], [2].
Myotherapy and Remedial Massage can assist with the relief and recovery from acute and chronic muscle fascia ailments that have resulted from overuse or direct injury [2], [3], [4].
Therapists can provide a general guide about how many treatments may be required for specific problems after considering the cause and, any other health issues the person may have [2]. Tissue response to therapy varies in each person, regardless whether the discomfort is acute or chronic. The therapy may successfully treat the soft tissue but because pain and discomfort are complex, these feelings may take longer to improve.
To help the soft tissue to recover it is important to do any stretches or exercise the therapist prescribes. Treatment is based on achieving steady improvements therefore, therapy given may need to extend over a period of time and be adjusted as the soft tissue responds [4].
As pain is a very personal experience, it is important to remember that response to any treatment can vary from person to person [1].

Written by Angela Smith – Myotherapist, City Haven Massage Therapy.

References

[1] Fillingim, R. B. (2017). Individual Differences in Pain: Understanding the Mosaic that Makes Pain. Pain, 158 (1), S11–S18.
[2] The Department of Health & Human Services, State Government of Victoria, Australia. (2017, July). Massage. Retrieved from Better Health Channel: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/massage
[3] The Department of Health & Human Services, State Government of Victoria, Australia. (2019, April). Myotherapy. Retrieved from Better Health Channel: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/myotherapy
[4] The Department of Health & Human Services, State Government of Victoria, Australia. (2019, May). Pain and Pain Management – Adults. Retrieved from Better Health Channel: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/pain-and-pain-management-adults