FAQ's About Neuromuscular Therapy Sessions

Can anyone receive NMT?

Yes, almost anyone can receive and benefit from NMT treatments. NMT therapists are "direct-access" providers, so you do not need a medical referral. There are a few conditions that are contraindicated for massage and neuromuscular therapy. For example, ubiquitous skin conditions and some types of cancer . Visit the AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association) to learn more about the relationship between massage therapy and possible contraindications. Click to view: AMTA Massage & Serious Health Conditions.

Can you work on more than one problem area at a time?

Yes, in fact from the NMT perspective, it is likely that pain patterns in different areas of the body are related. Further, many times we experience pain in one area, say for example, our neck, and become aware of a related painful area like the low back, only upon palpation or treatment. Neuromuscular Therapists do not "chase the pain," that is, we do not simply treat the areas that are reported as painful. The principles of NMT allow the therapist to assess and relate postural defects, movement deficiencies, and the presence of painful areas in a way that "connects the dots": the "story" of your pain or discomfort generally reveals itself through this perceptual lens. For example, sometimes the key to resolving a neck-pain pattern requires correcting the imbalances of the pelvis and thoracic spine. A more integrated perspective on the "problem" leads to the development of a specific, personal and effective treatment protocol.

How many sessions will it take before I feel better?

Although the factors that affect treatment outcomes are many, it is likely you'll know after two or three sessions of NMT whether or not this treatment approach can help you. The duration of treatment for a specific soft-tissue pain syndrome will be determined by a host of interacting factors. When and how did the pain/injury occur? Where diagnostic tests performed and what were the results? Is there some problem with your mattress or pillow or the number of hours you spend driving? What, if any, environmental or work-station factors cause or contribute to the pain syndrome? Are appropriate corrective stretching and strengthening exercises employed routinely to assist in the rehabilitation/prevention process? Unless your pain syndrome was caused by an accident or overt trauma, it is highly likely that certain "lifestyle" adjustment need to be made in one or more of the areas mentioned above. Your therapist will assist you in assessing the most likely contributors to your pain syndrome, and help you make the changes necessary to get you out of pain.

Is NMT painful?

In no case, will your therapist use an intensity or duration of pressure that is not OK with you. There are no "surprises," and no sudden thrusting motions used in NMT; you'll have plenty of time to communicate with your therapist about your degree of comfort. NMT, when applied properly, produces the "it hurts so good" response in most people. NMT is a deep tissue technique, which provides profound muscular relaxation and relief of tension and pain. During treatment we frequently employ a "number system" to accurately determine the appropriate amount of pressure to produce maximal therapeutic response. Your wishes will always be respected.

How long does each NMT session last?

Sessions last approximately a full clock hour depending on the particular protocol or treatment performed that day.

Do I have to get undressed to receive NMT?

There are many techniques used in NMT that require direct contact with the skin. Many mobilization or stretching techniques can be done fully clothed. All NMT treatments are performed with absolute respect for the client's comfort and modesty. We employee a "full-sheet drapery" technique, which means that you're completely covered except for the area being treated. Therapists will leave the room during client undressing and dressing. Your NMT therapists will explain your personal protocol for each session, and you can choose the degree to which you disrobe.

You're NMT therapists is a licensed professional provider of health enhancement services. NMT is a nonsexual, clinical massage service. Neuromuscular Works, has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual innuendo, sexually charged remarks, or behaviors. All of our therapists are familiar with and strictly conform to the AMTA's code of ethics. Click HERE to learn more about the AMTA Code of Ethics.

How much does NMT cost and does my insurance company pay?

Session fees for NMT at our clinic generally cost a little more than Swedish/relaxation massage performed at an independent studio, and considerably less than relaxation massage provided in a spa-type environment. Your individual insurance carrier may or may not reimburse you for NMT services.

NMT therapists are not licensed to diagnose; you must obtain a diagnosis from a referring medical professional, to be considered for coverage by your insurance carrier. We can provide you with a "physician referral form" at your request. Your medical referral for NMT services must be dated in advance of any NMT session you wish considered for reimbursement by your carrier. All fees for NMT are paid at the time services are rendered. Any reimbursements made by your insurance carrier must be made payable to you, the patient, and not Neuromuscular Works.

What is the cancellation policy?

When you make an appointment with us, a full hour of the therapist's time is reserved for you. Neuromuscular Works has a 24-hour prior notice cancellation policy; you must provide this notice to avoid payment of a full-session cancellation charge. Medical emergencies, death in the immediate family, and incapacitating illness constitute legitimate waivers of the cancellation fee, that is, it you will not be charged in these cases.

Situations such as traffic delays, business emergencies, car trouble, lack of childcare, incorrect entry of appointment date or time into your electronic devices, do not constitute cause for waiving the cancellation charge. However, in any event, we will make every effort to fill your appointment. If we do fill the appointment you will not be charged a cancellation fee.

If you have questions we have not answered here, or you need additional clarification. Email us or give us a call at 615.712.6536. For more contact information please click HERE to visit our Contact Us page.