WHAT IS NEUROKINETIC THERAPY (NKT)
It’s an assessment and rehabilitative technique used to find a source of low back pain, neck pain, carpal tunnel, frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis, sciatica, and many other conditions. It is based on motor control center theory, neuroplasticity, and functional movement and was developed by David Weinstock.
When clients kept returning to me for more relief for the same pain, I was not satisfied with the results of my work and looked for a longer-lasting solution. I was thinking (there is plenty of time for a massage therapist to think) that somehow I’m missing a link and am not addressing the real cause of the problem. Instead, I am only chasing it, rubbing on top of the symptoms. Thankfully, tons of continuing education opportunities are offered, and I was lucky to find NeuroKinetic Therapy (NKT).
Neuro refers to the nerves, and kinetic refers to movement. I tried to explain this to clients, but it sounded overwhelming for those who wanted the traditional “magic touch.” After using NKT on a rather open-minded portion of my clientele, I quickly realized that my search for a long-term pain relief solution has ended. I began treating the cause of dysfunction, not the symptoms. This produced real results and wowed the desperate chronic pain sufferers because their pain had diminished tremendously.
Here is a description copy from the NKT website: The NKT protocol employs a system of precise muscle tests that has the ability to change the programming of the Motor Control Center, which coordinates all movement patterns in the body.
· Define body part doesn’t work properly (is inhibited)
· Find the tissue (muscle, ligament, or even a scar) than compensates
· Release the overworked area, engage the lazy part and assign homework
You and your partner are both working full time, helping around the house with kids and dogs. One day your partner is injured and can’t work. Now you compensate for your partner’s inabilities and are the only one working, caring for family and home. How will you feel after a month? Imagine how exhausted and overworked you will feel after a year! The same goes for your muscles. Rest brings only temporary relief. Injury is not the only reason for inhibition. Inactivity, repetitive strain, or lifestyle choices can also cause painful compensation patterns.
Neurokinetic therapy is one of the tools in the therapist’s belt. To fulfill the protocol of the NKT technique, 2 things need to happen release and activation. Therefore the session will include other techniques for release. You will also need to do your part of the movement because not even the best therapist can change your motor control without your help. As I like to say, please help me help you. One thing is certain; it works to relieve pain associated with faulty movement, much better than deep tissue full-body massages.
The compensation pattern is ingrained in your brain, and just like any habit requires sufficient time to be changed. Homework is necessary to contribute to your body transformation outside of your therapy sessions.
Some compensations patterns have been present for years because clients try to rest and stretch, bringing only temporary relief and no resolution of a painful movement pattern. If you stretch but still feel tightness, it’s not because you don’t stretch ENOUGH (unless you don’t stretch enough, like once a year:)) Try active stretching or add exercises you never do. But before you get excited and begin, schedule an appointment to find out what your compensation pattern is so that you know what to stretch and what to activate!
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