What is NMT or Neuromuscular Technique?

NMT (Neuromuscular Technique) is a soft tissue technique developed in the 1930’s by Dr Stanley Lief.  NMT is the application of quasi-static pressure perpendicular to the skin with the aim of releasing pain and tension in muscles (normally in skeletal muscles).

Neuromuscular Technique is used by

  • Physiotherapists
  • Osteopaths
  • Chiropractors
  • Massage Therapists

A lot of clients will be familiar with NMT techniques from having either a sports massage, deep tissue massage or seated acupressure massage with Vitality Therapy.  We commonly use NMT when we treat

  • muscle spasms
  • muscle tension
  • aches & pains
  • trigger points

When we have identified the problem area in your muscle, we apply pressure with our fingers, knuckles or elbows.  We often hold the static pressure for between several seconds to up to two minutes.  What we look for are non-verbal and verbal signals that the pain and tension are releasing.

Is NMT Painful?

When we apply the pressure, we aim for a “good pain” where you feel the right level of pressure is being applied to create the release.  Sometimes I ask clients to rate the pain on a scale of 0 to 10 to ensure that it is bearable and hence a “good pain”.

 

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