Neuromuscular Therapy Career Guide |
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Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) is a specialized form of bodywork that uses various manual techniques to balance the body's nervous system. Because the muscular and skeletal systems are intimately tied to the central nervous system, injuries, stress, trauma, and poor posture can create improper nerve impulse making the body vulnerable to many painful disorders. This discipline focuses on the six primary sources of pain and dysfunction: ischemia (lack of blood flow), trigger points (painful spots in the muscle band), nerve compression, nutrition, and emotional well being. Practitioners of NMT use various forms of pressure on specific points to balance nerve signals thereby relieving pain and tension in the body.
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NMT was initially developed in the 1930's by and doctors Stanley Lief and Boris Chatitow who both had backgrounds in Naturopathy and Osteopathy. This technique is rooted in an extensive study of interactions between the nervous system and the musculoskeletal system, and was practically tested and refined in their world famous health resort in Hertfordshire, England. This practice became very popular between both Osteopathic and Naturopathic communities and was often included in the curriculum. Over the years, NMT has largely evolved in both European and American settings to the credit of many talented scholars, doctors, and therapists.
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In a typical NMT session, patients will be asked to wear or will be provided shorts and a top (for women) so that the therapist may easily access specific portions of the body. In cases where NMT is utilized with other forms of therapeutic massage, patients may also be draped with a sheet. Patients will typically lie on a massage table while the therapist uses concentrated pressure applied by hands, fingers, knuckles, and even elbows. They will typically apply a certain level of pressure for 10-30 seconds at a time and will focus on certain points of the body, especially on trigger points and any muscles in spasm. The intensity of pain will often be greater at first and will decrease as the treatment goes on. Patients should let the therapist know about their tolerable threshold of pain.
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- Joint Pain
- Chronic Pain
- Migraines
- Rotator Cuff Dysfunction
- Poor Posture
- Stress Related Disorders
- Repetitive Strain Injuries
- Lower Back Pain
- Muscle Pain, Soreness or Injury
- Sciatica
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Restricted Movement
- Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ)
- Muscle Spasm
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- Restores blood and oxygen supply in the body
- Improves posture
- Unlocks tension
- Reduces pressure on nerves
- Rebalances biochemical function
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Side-Effects/Contra-Indications
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- There are no known side effects of NMT.
- If you suffer from any serious medical conditions, consult a physician before treatment
- Soreness might be felt the day after treatment. This is normal and will subside shortly.
- Due to the detoxification effects of many manual therapies, temporary feelings of illness may occur.
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Neuromuscular Therapy classes are open to anyone with a strong interest in the subject. No previous background is needed but to practice professionally one would need to be a licensed massage therapist or another form of health care practitioner in most regions. Though there are centers dedicated to the teaching of NMT, classes can also be found at many massage and bodywork schools around the country. Students are taught various theoretical topics and are trained in the various techniques of NMT. Students will be required to pass both written and practical exams before being eligible for certification.
Degree/License offered: Certified Neuromuscular Therapist (CNMT)
Length of study: Courses are generally100- 200 Hrs, though this may vary depending on the school and region.
Cost/Financial Aid: Costs may also vary depending on the school and its location. Class fees typically range from $1400-$2000 for the entire program. Financial aid may be available at some schools for students who qualify and can also be attained from outside sources.
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Practitioner Training & Licensure:
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Neuromuscular Therapy is often considered a subfield of massage therapy. Therefore, many Neuromuscular Therapy students complete their training through massage therapy schools allowing them to get certification in this field. Likewise, Neuromuscular Therapy classes often count as continuing education classes for massage therapists. Practitioners usually hold a license in massage therapy or other forms of alternative medicine.
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Average Salary/ Hourly Rate:
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Depending on geographic area, setting, and the experience of the practitioner, a Neuromuscular Therapy session can cost an average of $75 - $125 per hour. Practitioners may work in clinics, spas, or privately, all of which will influence their average annual income.
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