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- Medical Strengthening Therapy (MST)
- FAQs on MST
- What form does MST take?
What form does Medical Strengthening Therapy take?
Medical Strengthening Therapy (MST) may only be prescribed by a doctor. First of all you will undergo a thorough clinical examination and muscle function analysis. The results will form the basis of your discussion with the doctor on the best way forward. If therapy is indicated, a therapy programme will be compiled consisting of 12 - 18 sessions. Therapy is done once or twice a week and given on a one-to-one basis by specially trained therapists.
Therapy content
The first therapy session is an introduction to Medical Strengthening Therapy. The therapy machine is adjusted and we measure your pain-free spinal range of motion and isolate the deep muscles of the spine.
A strength curve is prepared showing the current load capacity of your back extensor muscles and displayed on the computer screen. At subsequent therapy sessions, the targeted muscles are strengthened and we gradually increase your range of motion and load capacity. The aim of therapy is to achieve strength levels that are commensurate with those of an average healthy individual and ensure that your back can once again withstand normal loads. In addition to specific training of the deep back muscles, the surrounding muscles are also strengthened. For this you are accompanied by a therapist.
During therapy, the doctor will conduct interim examinations providing an opportunity to discuss the following questions:
- Has your pain declined?
- Is your increase in strength in line with expectations?
- Has your mobility improved?
- Have you experienced any problems?
- Do we need to make any changes to the therapy?
- How long do your muscles need for recovery?