Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT) is a therapeutic approach to assess movement dysfunctions causing pain in the body. Sean Kelliher one of the Senior Remedial Massage therapists at Verdelab uses NKT as part of his approach to treatment.
NKT focuses on identifying and correcting faulty movement patterns that are causing pain. By working with the central nervous system to “reprogram” these patterns we can restore functional, pain free movement. Using a sequence of muscle testing, we can assess the motor control centre of the brain, and how it is organising stability and movement. When neural tissue becomes compressed by tight muscles, tendons and ligaments through injury or fatigue, we move with less efficient movement patterns which can eventually lead to pain. Neurokinetic therapy identifies dysfunctional patterns of movement associated with clients’ pain, releases tight structures and restores balance and functional, pain free movement. Neurokinetic therapy implements a plan of treatment including corrective exercises and stretches.
Sean is trained as a Remedial Massage therapist https://remedialmassagebrunswick.com.au/services/remedial-massage/ and uses NKT as part of his treatment. He carries out movement screening before the initial muscle testing. Assessing a joints range of motion alerts us to which muscle groups are tight and/or restricting movement. The muscle testing can then determine which muscle groups have overactive or weak connectivity. The testing is specific to areas of impeded movement that have been hindering mobility and causing pain. The initial NKT testing provides a plan for treatment and helps with identifying dysfunctional movement patterns. Poor movement patterns develop due to compensation when certain muscles aren’t firing correctly. NKT works on the theory that if one muscle or muscle group is not firing correctly or when it should be, another muscle or muscle group may become overactive, compensating for the inefficiency of the under-utilised muscles. This dysfunctional pattern can cause movement inhibition and restriction, and ultimately pain.
What to expect as part of Neurokinetic Therapy? A gentle reprogramming of the motor control system, with the initial testing identifying the faulty pattern and muscle imbalances. During the treatment Sean uses a range of techniques to relieve tight structures and re-set the muscle firing order. There will be an element of palpation to assess which exact muscles tendons and ligaments are tight. Light muscle testing to assess dysfunction. Manual hands-on-therapy to relieve tension, including massage and stretching, and joint alignment gently balancing ligament tone (non-invasive). The aim of the treatment is to return joints to a more full, pain free range of movement using more efficient muscle firing patterns. Restoring muscle and joint function relaxes the whole body and calms the central nervous system.
Sean also provides his clients with corrective stretches and exercises to help re-train muscles, muscle firing patterns and create new and pain free movement patterns. The corrective exercises assist with improving motor control and prevent the muscle dysfunction from re-occurring.
NKT is becoming more commonly used by Osteopaths, Physical therapists (Physios), Chiropractors and Massage Therapists. It can be effective for a range of issues like chronic pain, sports injuries, postural imbalances, and relieving stress.
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