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Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy -vs- Athletic Therapy -vs- Neuromuscular Therapy -- What's the difference?

Writer's picture: Sue HuetSue Huet

Updated: Nov 25, 2024


A female physiotherapist assessing a patient's back pain

In truth, these three forms of treatment are almost synonymous. The overall goal to get clients to achieve a healthy, well-functioning body is the same. The means of getting there are pretty interchangeable - soft tissue treatment options, exercise rehabilitation programmes, and educating clients on their anatomy, physiology, expected recovery, and the role they play in managing their symptoms. The main differences in approach will be individual practitioner differences - experience, beliefs, personal approach, continuous professional development adding different skills.

A quick snapshot on general focus for each would be ATs tend to have a stronger focus on sports related injuries & return to sport, NMTs tend to have a stronger focus on chronic injuries and pain, and MSK Physios tend to treat everything.

Another important point that is relevant in Ireland is the health insurance coverage in not equal. I've noted the coverage with a more in depth description of each modality below:


MUSCULOSKELETAL (MSK) PHYSIOTHERAPY

MSK Physiotherapists are healthcare professionals who treat all conditions involving the mechanics of the body. The MSK system is comprised of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves & fascia. MSK physios look at the interaction of these tissues in posture and movement. They aim to help restore movement and function when this has been affected by an injury or illness. They also promote health and wellbeing as part of the recovery and prevention of injuries and conditions.

Physiotherapists use their knowledge of how the body works and how it is affected by conditions of the musculoskeletal system (soft tissue, joints and bones) to devise treatment plans appropriate to the patient’s condition. Physiotherapists work independently and are able to make evidence based, informed choices on the best treatment options available for each patient.

  • Insurance coverage in Ireland: all major health insurance providers accept claims for physiotherapy appointments in line with the client's policy.


ATHLETIC THERAPY (AT)

A Certified Athletic Therapist (CAT) is a healthcare professional who specializes in the prevention, assessment, immediate care, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries. They play a key role in helping individuals return to their physical activities after injury and optimize their overall performance or get back to a pain-free state.

The focus of a CAT is to assess the neuro-musculoskeletal system, and to then diagnose, treat and rehabilitate injuries. Assessment and treatment includes hands-on techniques to decrease pain and improve overall function, as well as specific rehabilitation exercises to ensure the best result.

  • Insurance coverage in Ireland: LAYA and Irish Life health insurance providers accept claims for athletic therapy appointments under "physical therapy" and "massage therapy" categories, in line with the client's policy.


NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY (NMT)

Similar to MSK Physiotherapy & Athletic Therapy, Neuromuscular Therapy aims to treat acute and chronic neurological and musculoskeletal pain.

NMT is particularly effective for clients who present with chronic pain and is often successful in reducing or eliminating even longstanding painful conditions. NMT assessments and examinations primarily address myofascial trigger points, neural entrapment and compression, postural assessment and dysfunctional gait patterns.

  • Insurance coverage in Ireland: LAYA health insurance provider accepts claims for neuromuscular therapy appointments under "physical therapy" and "massage therapy" categories, in line with the client's policy.

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