Myotherapist

Myotherapy is the diagnosis, treatment, and management of myofascial pain and other soft tissue conditions which may be caused by trauma, aging, overload, or misuse of muscles. It is also used to treat fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and circulatory dysfunction. Developed in the 1970s by Bonnie Prudden, based on the work of Dr. Janet Travell, myotherapy is based on the idea that all myofascial pain is caused by stress on trigger points.

When treating a client, a myotherapist will take a comprehensive patient history, including family medical history and the lifestyle and habits of the person in question. They will then observe the client as they approach day-to-day life, so as to better get a grasp on what may be causing the stress and how it can be avoided so as to relieve flare-ups. Following this, they may also do physical tests on the client, finding their current range of motion and ability. This information will not only help them locate the problem trigger points, but also to help them offer their client advice on preventive measures.

In order to become a myotherapist, the training varies according to where it takes place. Some schools only require 550 hours of training, whereas others, most notably the Bonnie Prudden Myoytherapy schools, require as much as 1300 hours of training before certification. Any Bonnie Prudden certified my therapist must also update their training every two years with 45 hours of study, followed by recertification.

Myotherapists work in a variety of settings, but most often in clinics, offices, and massage therapy centers. They may also work in health spas, hospitals, or sometimes in sports facilities. Their income also varies according to the capacity in which they are employed. The outlook for this career is parallel to the growth of other massage therapy careers, which are growing quickly.

California Schools
	(Boise, San Diego) - Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy, Optical Technician, Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant
	- (Bakersfield)* - Holistic Health Practitioner
Maric College	(Vista)* - Holistic Health Practitioner
	(SF Bay Area) - Massage Therapist and Health Educator
Silicon Valley College*	(Emeryville, Fremont, San Jose , Walnut Creek ) - Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy

Idaho Schools
	(Boise) - Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant, Dental Assisting, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician

Oregon Schools
Ashmead College	(Tigard) - Massage Therapy, Spa & Aromatherapy

Washington Schools
Ashmead College*	(Seattle, Fife, Vancouver , Everett)- Fitness Trainer, Massage Therapy, Spa and Aromatherapy

*Program Availability Varies By Location and Often Changes. To get the most up-to-date information, use the links we provide to request additional information from a local campus representative.