Since I started studying Sports Massage Level 4 in June I have learnt some amazing techniques which have made such an impact on the way I now treat my clients.  The result have been amazing, tensions have eased quicker than when applying the usual massage techniques I previously used.  Clients are able to function so much better afterwards and love the combination of massage techniques and stretches.  One of the methods we have learnt is Neuromuscular Technique (NMT) I have applied NMT on a few of my clients since we learnt it.  One of them did come out in a small bruise the size of my thumb which can happen where a lot of tension is present but he generally felt that his calf mussle was a lot looser after the technique was applied and had no trouble with it in between visits which was two weeks.  I thought it would be nice to publish some blurb on the techniques which I use so people can understand what is happening to them throughout ththeir treatments.

Neuromuscular Technique is form of friction using gradual pressure on the area affected.  The pressure is increased according to the clients pain threshold.  The pressure is applied whilst consulting with the client at all times, this will ensure that no further damage will occur.  The pressure is maintained until the pain begins to decrease.  The pressure can be applied by using the thumb or finger, elbow, palm of the hand or forearm.  Deep pressure on a damaged area helps the nervous system to provoke a reflex which helps the muscles to relax in the area being treated.   NMT can be carried out alongside a normal routine and does not need to be treated just on its own.  NMT is a more precise form of deep tissue and pressure techniques used within massage.  Using NMT techniques can help elevate ongoing symptoms of pain where there is a change within the tension in a muscle caused by musculoskeletal problems within the tissues.  This can occur naturally and is controlled by the nervous system.  Tension builds up within the affected area to help prevent any further damage this can also occur in areas that are habitually held a shortened position as a result of postural, occupational or even emotional every day routines.   Neuromuscular techniques are non-invasive and a comprehensive system of soft-tissue manipulation techniques.  NMT techniques provide a therapist with information regarding tissue tone, oedema, fibrosity and areas of soft tissue changes such as change in sensation, pain. and hypersensitivity.  NMT can move painlessly from investigative mode to treatment mode in an instant, if deemed appropriate as part of a massage routine.   During a massage deep pressure can cause some discomfort and pain but the person receiving the treatment can sometimes feel that it is a nice pain and that it results in relaxation in the area afterwards.  NMT has been studied in great depth since it was developed in the early 1900’s.  one of the theories behind NMT is that the application of pressure results in pain which then instigates the body to release endorphins that suppress the pain which in turn releases the tension.  The pressure being applied to the area restricts the blood vessels within the area which starves the immediate area of blood, this is referred to as Ischaemia.  When the pressure is removed the blood is allowed to return to the area and the nervous system reacts to the extreme changes to the localized area which in turn results in relaxation