Physiotherapy Industry – which job is right for you?

With modern ailments come modern treatment techniques. The healthcare industry has grown and changed in recent years to incorporate the best of western and eastern medicine when treating physical problems in the body. If you’re interested in healthcare but you aren’t sure which career is right for you, TAFE Gippsland is comparing remedial massage, myotherapy, kinesiology, physiotherapy and osteopathy.

Myotherapy

Myotherapy is the assessment, treatment and management of musculoskeletal conditions, focusing on massage as the main tool. Patients with muscular dysfunction and pain that affects their mobility can benefit from this therapy style as massage helps to release the problem areas. Myotherapy also utilises techniques such as dry needling, trigger point therapy and myofascial release.

In order to work as a myotherapist in private practice, you must have an Advanced Diploma of Remedial Massage or a Bachelor of Health Science degree, majoring in Myotherapy.

Osteopathy

Osteopathy recognises the important link between the structure of the body and how well it can function. Osteopaths focus on how the skeleton, joints, nerves, circulation, tissues and organs work together as a holistic unit. As an osteopath, you learn to identify the source of dysfunction in the body using skilled evaluation and diagnosis techniques.

Osteopathic treatment includes stretching, massage and mobilisation of specific joints and soft tissues. Osteopaths require a university degree and ongoing professional development to maintain registration each year.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists treat patients who suffer from physical ailments caused by injury, disease, illness and ageing. These professionals aim to improve their patients’ quality of life by alleviating pain and restoring function to the body. Treatments include joint mobilisation and manipulation, soft tissue work, electrotherapy, laser therapy, ultrasound, exercise and education.

To become a physiotherapist, you will need a 4-year undergraduate degree with further study into areas of specialisation. Like osteopathy, physiotherapists are required to continue their professional development each year.

Kinesiology

Kinesiology is another holistic approach to improving the function of the body through muscle monitoring. Kinesiology combines western and eastern medicine to promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. This non-invasive technique focuses on the body’s ability to heal itself and restore balance through the flow of energy.

To become a kinesiologist, you will need a bachelor’s degree or a masters in Kinesiology or a related field, including human kinetics, exercise science of exercise physiology.

Remedial Massage

Remedial massage focuses exclusively on manipulating the superficial and deeper layers of muscle and the connective tissues. The goal of remedial massage is to enhance the function of the body, release muscular tension, promote relaxation and aid in the healing process.

Remedial massage can help to:

• Relax the muscles
• Encourage overall relaxation
• Improve sleep
• Enhance performance in sport
• Reduce recovery times
• Increase the range of motion
• Facilitate lymphatic drainage

A Diploma of Remedial Massage gives students the knowledge and skills required to work in this industry. It can also work as a steppingstone into physiotherapy, kinesiology, myotherapy and osteopathy, making it a great place to begin when you aren’t sure which aspect of the healthcare industry is calling to you.

Choose TAFE Degrees that Will Get You There

If you aren’t certain about your future career and the concept of a 4-year university degree is daunting, a TAFE degree will open pathways you never imagined. Find out more about the Diploma of Remedial Massage at TAFE Gippsland by calling 1300 475 146 or contacting us online.