Need to know: all about myotherapy

Whether you’ve strained your back during a workout or are struggling with persistent neck pain from hours spent hunching over your desk, myotherapy might offer the relief you crave.

We spoke with Erin Baker, co-CEO of the Myotherapy Association Australia, to learn more about the role of a myotherapist, and how they can support your health and Real Wellbeing.

What does a myotherapist do?

Myotherapy is often compared to other manual therapies such as physiotherapy, chiropractic and osteopathy, as these all involve hands-on treatment aimed at improving mobility, relieving pain and discomfort, and helping you recover from injury.

But while these modalities are very similar, “myotherapy places a specific emphasis on the neuromusculoskeletal system, which includes muscles, joints and nerves,” says Erin.

And although techniques like massage, cupping, dry needling and trigger-point therapy are commonly associated with myotherapy, they’re not exclusive to it, she adds.

“Myotherapists often use these techniques, but so do other practitioners,” explains Erin. “So, the main distinction between these professions lies in a myotherapist’s specialised focus and the qualification level required. This typically includes an advanced diploma or a bachelor’s degree in health science with a specialisation in myotherapy.”

When to visit a myotherapist

As a manual therapy that focuses on the muscles, soft tissues, joints and nerves of the body, myotherapy can help to manage a wide range of conditions—from acute injuries like sprained ankles and tennis elbow to chronic issues such as arthritis and lower back pain.

“Anything movement-related, especially musculoskeletal conditions, can benefit from myotherapy,” says Erin. “This includes systemic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, as well as everyday problems like neck pain and headaches.”

But myotherapy isn’t just for those in pain. Making regular appointments is an excellent option for engaging in preventative care and maintaining your wellbeing.

“Getting regular myotherapy can help you feel good, move well and continue doing what you love,” says Erin. “And if any acute flare-ups or injuries do occur, having a relationship with your therapist can make it easier to manage them, because you’ll know who to call, and that you’re in good hands.”

What to expect from a myotherapy appointment

Erin explains that a typical myotherapy session involves the following steps:

1. Subjective assessment: Your myotherapist will begin by discussing your issue, your medical history, and any other relevant factors that might be affecting your health.
2. Objective assessment: This involves a myotherapist making their own physical assessments— through movement tests or special examinations—to accurately diagnose your condition.
3. Hands-on treatment: Myotherapy typically includes hands-on treatments tailored to your specific needs.
4. Exercise prescription: Your myotherapist may prescribe exercises to support your recovery and improve your movement.
5. Self-care advice: They might follow up with suggestions of home-care practices to help you maintain your treatment results and manage your condition.

Erin emphasises that myotherapy isn’t just about providing physical relief—it’s also about the emotional and mental benefits of supportive touch and therapeutic connection.

“Many people come not just for pain relief but also for the positive experience of care and connection with their myotherapist,” she says. “And that’s because of another thing the industry is really good at: listening.”

How private health insurance can support your myotherapy care

Extras cover through private health insurance can help make myotherapy more accessible by offsetting some of the costs.

Debbie Stewart, Senior Manager of Product at Australian Unity, explains that “with extras cover, you'll generally get a portion of the cost back, either as a percentage of the cost or a fixed dollar amount, depending on your level of cover.

“So, for example, in 2023, Australian Unity members claimed nearly 30,000 myotherapy sessions, with an average spend of $98 per visit and an average rebate of $40.”

Exactly what you get back will vary based on your specific policy. For example, some policies might cover 60 percent of the cost of each session up to an annual limit. This flexibility allows you to choose a registered myotherapist that you trust, without the restriction of preferred providers.

For Australian Unity members, managing your myotherapy claims is even more straightforward with the Australian Unity app, where you can track your claims, see your limits, and review your spending history.

Choosing the right myotherapist

When looking for a myotherapist, Erin says that choosing someone you trust and feel comfortable with can make all the difference to your treatment and overall experience. But she also stresses that they should be a member of a professional association, as this will ensure they have the proper qualifications and insurance.

So whether you’re dealing with an injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to prevent future issues, myotherapy might be able to provide the healing touch you’re looking for. And with the help of private health insurance, accessing these benefits is much more affordable.

If you’re still on the fence about whether myotherapy could help you move and feel better, Erin’s advice is simple: “You’ll never know if you never go.”