AIMS
To establish a clear picture of the professional therapist and their role withing health care. The therapist is primarily a facilitator.
Neuromuscular physical therapists facilitate speedy recovery by the nature of the effects of sports massage techniques on circulation, elimination, and neuromuscular control,freeing up restrictions and myofascial tissues ‘tacked’ down or adhered.
Neuromuscular physical therapists treat minor soft tissue injury and dysfunctional tissues, with the informed consent of their client.
ROLE OF THE THERAPIST
The Neuromuscular physical therapist specializes in the assessment of, and the manual manipulation of the various tissues including skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments,fascia, and the structures that lie within the connective tissues by using the hand, foot,knee,arm,elbow and forearm through the systematic external application of touch therapies.
Techniques including effleurage, petrissage, friction, vibration,kneading,stretching,compression, or passive and active joint movements, within the normal physiologic range of motion, are part of the specifics of the Neuromuscular physical therapist.
The Neuromuscular physical therapist does not treat medical conditions such as serious soft tissue injury. Heat and/or cold application may be used for the purpose of establishing and/or maintaining good physical condition and health though normalizing dysfunctional tissues,returning normal muscle tone,promoting relaxation,stimulating circulation and normalizing the respiratory and nervous systems and the subtle interactions between all the body systems. Soft tissue manipulation skills ensure effective diagnostic and therapeutic applications in a safe appropriate and effective manner that respects the clients self-determine outcome for any session.
The Neuromuscular physical therapist is a health care professional that can assess and treat individuals who have chronic injuries/issues or other health-related conditions, that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives or sport. The Neuromuscular physical therapist can examine each individual and develop a plan using specific techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent further injury. In addition, they work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs, by referring or developing fitness/rehab programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.
Neuromuscular physical therapists provide care for people in a variety of settings, including private practices, sports and fitness facilities, team settings, and on/off the pitch. Neuromuscular physical therapy is a dynamic profession with an established theoretical and scientific base and widespread clinical applications in the restoration, maintenance, and promotion of optimal physical function.
NTC. National Qualification in Neuromuscular Physical Therapy, Page 374