Myotherapy vs. Physiotherapy: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?

Many people are familiar with Physiotherapy, but Myotherapy is a lesser-known treatment option. While both Myotherapists and Physiotherapists help with musculoskeletal pain, injury recovery, and movement improvement, their treatment approaches and techniques differ significantly. Understanding these differences will help you decide which treatment best suits your needs.

What Is Myotherapy?

Myotherapy focuses on hands-on techniques to manage musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Treatments are designed to improve movement, reduce pain, and support long-term recovery. Myotherapists assess each client’s specific needs and use evidence-based treatment plans to address the underlying causes of discomfort.

Myotherapy is also covered by private health insurance extras.

Key Myotherapy Techniques:

• Dry needling for muscular and neuropathic pain

• Cupping therapy to improve circulation and relax muscles

• Myofascial release to ease muscle tension and improve flexibility

• Joint mobilisation to increase range of motion

Common Conditions Treated by Myotherapists:

• Neck, back, and shoulder pain

• Sports injuries (sprains, strains, tendinitis)

• Chronic pain

• Postural imbalances causing discomfort or stiffness

• Neuromuscular pain

  
  

What Is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a broad treatment approach aimed at rehabilitating and optimising function for individuals with musculoskeletal, neurological, or cardiorespiratory conditions.

In addition to treating pain and movement dysfunction, Physiotherapists can diagnose conditions, refer for diagnostic imaging, and interpret results.

They can also provide treatment under DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs), Medicare care plans, and WorkCover for workers' compensation claims.

Key Physiotherapy Techniques:

• Manual therapy (e.g., joint manipulation and soft tissue mobilisation)

• Rehabilitation exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility

• Hydrotherapy for rehabilitation in water

• Ergonomic advice to prevent workplace injuries

Common Conditions Treated by Physiotherapists:

• Fractures, sprains, and strains

• Neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, Parkinson’s disease)

• Respiratory conditions (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

• Post-surgical rehabilitation (e.g., joint replacements, ACL surgery)

• Sports injuries

• Chronic pain

Key Differences Between Myotherapy & Physiotherapy

One of the biggest distinctions between Myotherapy and Physiotherapy is the treatment approach.

Myotherapy places a strong emphasis on hands-on techniques, such as:

✅ Myofascial release

✅ Dry needling

✅ Cupping therapy

✅ Joint mobilisation

In contrast, many Physiotherapists are moving away from hands-on treatments and focusing more on exercise prescription. A common complaint from clients seeking hands-on treatment is that their Physiotherapy sessions were not very hands-on.

Feature	Myotherapy	Physiotherapy
Primary Focus	Musculoskeletal pain management and injury rehabilitation	Rehabilitation, injury prevention, and functional recovery
Techniques	Dry needling, cupping, myofascial release, TENS, corrective exercises	Manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, ultrasound, hydrotherapy
Scope of Practice	Specialises in musculoskeletal conditions	Broader scope, including musculoskeletal, neurological, and respiratory conditions
Training	Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Myotherapy)	University degree (e.g., Bachelor of Physiotherapy)
Conditions Treated	Musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, chronic pain, postural issues	Musculoskeletal, neurological, respiratory conditions, and post-surgery recovery
Treatment Settings	Private practices	Hospitals, private practices, sports teams
Accessibility	Private paying including those with private health insurance	Private, WorkCover, DVA, Medicare Care Plans and Private health insurance.

Appointment Length & Pricing Comparison

Another key difference is the structure and cost of appointments. For example, the average price for a 60-minute appointment in the Indooroopilly and surrounding area is $194 for Physiotherapy and $137 for Myotherapy.

Most Physiotherapy clinics offer shorter follow-up sessions, typically 30 minutes, whereas Myotherapy offers longer appointments of 45 minutes, 60 minutes, or even 90 minutes—giving you more time for hands-on treatment.

Similarities Between Myotherapy & Physiotherapy

Both Myotherapy and Physiotherapy:

✔ Assess and treat musculoskeletal conditions

✔ Focus on pain management, functional recovery, and mobility improvement

✔ Offer rehabilitation for musculoskeletal injuries and chronic conditions

✔ Use manual therapy techniques to treat pain, restore movement, and improve function

✔ Aim to achieve long-term improvements and better quality of life

Choosing the Right Practitioner for You

The choice between a Myotherapist and a Physiotherapist depends on:

• Your specific condition (musculoskeletal, neurological, or respiratory issues)

• The therapist’s training and areas of specialisation

• Whether you need a diagnosis or diagnostic imaging

• The treatment approach (hands-on therapy vs. exercise-focused)

• Your funding options (private health insurance, Medicare, DVA, WorkCover)

• Your preference for appointment length (shorter or longer sessions)

• Your budget

If you prefer a hands-on approach with longer appointment times at an affordable rate, Myotherapy may be the better fit for you.

If you require a diagnosis, imaging referrals, acute rehabilitation or treatment for neurological or respiratory conditions, Physiotherapy may be more suitable.

Your treatment experience may also vary depending on the therapist's background and ongoing professional development. The best approach is to research practitioners and consider factors such as their expertise, treatment style, and whether their approach aligns with your health goals.

Collaboration Between Myotherapists & Physiotherapists

Myotherapists and Physiotherapists can work together to provide comprehensive care for clients. While Myotherapists focus on hands-on techniques to relieve muscle tension, improve mobility, and address pain, Physiotherapists can assist with rehabilitation exercises, diagnostic referrals, and broader functional recovery. For some individuals, combining both approaches can lead to more effective, well-rounded treatment, ensuring all aspects of their condition are addressed.

Still unsure?

Book a complementary discovery call to discuss your needs and find the best approach for you.