Frequently Asked Questions

Who are you?
Advanced Muscle Therapy is a physiotherapy clinic. The service or treatment that we offer is called the Meridian Muscle Reset (MMR). This technique is revolutionary because it combines evidence-based physiotherapy with alternative therapeutic approaches to provide a holistic solution for musculoskeletal issues.

Who is the founder of MMR?
The MMR technique was developed by Henry Wee, a certified physiotherapist, who combined different therapy techniques while researching ways to relieve his wife’s chronic pain.

What is MMR?
MMR stands for Meridian Muscle Reset, a treatment that combines traditional physiotherapy and alternative therapies, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Bowen therapy, and chiropractic techniques, to address pain and musculoskeletal dysfunctions.

What conditions can MMR treat? MMR is effective for
- Chronic pain and musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., neck pain, frozen shoulder, sciatica)
- Postural issues (e.g., kyphosis, lordosis).
- Sports injuries.
- Other conditions like sinusitis, indigestion, and heart palpitations.

Who can benefit from MMR?
MMR is suitable for individuals aged 7 to 80. It is ideal for office workers, athletes, retirees, manual laborers, and those with a history of injuries or unexplained muscle and joint pain.

What techniques are used in MMR?
MMR integrate evidence-base physiotherapy and complementary therapies.
Evidence-based physiotherapy like
- Manual therapy (joint mobilization, myofascial release)
- Therapeutic exercises (strengthening, flexibility, balance)
- Electrotherapy (TENS, ultrasound)
- Shockwave therapy
Complementary therapies like
- Acupressure
- Cupping
- Bone / Chiro manipulation
- Bowen Therapy
- Sports Massage

How does MMR differ from traditional physiotherapy?
While traditional physiotherapy focuses on localized muscle tension, MMR takes a holistic approach by targeting multiple areas of restriction, improving both blood and chi flow throughout the body.

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### Pain and Symptoms

What is causing my pain (joints, muscles, bones, etc.)?
Pain can arise from various disruptions in the musculoskeletal system. This often occurs due to trauma, such as injuries or overuse of soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia). When these tissues are affected, they can develop muscle tension, knots, trigger points, and other inflammation markers that restrict blood flow. This restriction leads to discomfort, pain, stiffness, and sensations like numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Why can't my pain seem to be cured?
Certain types of pain, especially those related to musculoskeletal issues, are caused by ongoing disruptions in blood flow and chi (from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective). While treatment can help manage and alleviate pain by improving blood circulation and soft tissue function, some underlying conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or tumors, may not fully respond to musculoskeletal treatments. In such cases, the pain may be managed but not entirely cured, requiring further medical evaluation.

Why does my pain seem to move around or change over time?
Pain can shift due to the body's compensatory mechanisms. When one area is affected, the body may adjust how it moves or functions, causing strain in other areas. Additionally, disruptions in blood circulation can cause changes in sensation throughout the body, leading to moving or alternating pain. MMR helps address these blockages, improving overall circulation and reducing this shifting pain.

Why do I also have other unexplained symptoms like fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive issues?
Pain and poor circulation can influence the body in broader ways, affecting sleep, energy levels, and even mental clarity. Pain creates stress, which can impact hormone levels and neurotransmitter release, leading to issues like fatigue, insomnia, and cognitive fog. MMR helps by improving circulation, releasing tension, and encouraging the body’s release of beneficial neurotransmitters like serotonin (for better sleep), dopamine, and endorphins (for stress relief and pain reduction).

Why do my emotions and stress seem to affect my pain so much?
Emotions and stress directly impact the body’s nervous system, which regulates pain perception. When you are stressed, your body releases stress hormones, which can heighten pain sensitivity and increase muscle tension. Emotional distress also disrupts the flow of chi and blood, which may worsen pain symptoms. MMR can help by releasing tension and improving circulation, reducing the impact of stress on your pain.

Why are my muscles weak?

Muscle weakness can be due to factors (etiology) like
● Muscle Wasting
○ Atrophy - Is the muscle wasting condition due to conditions like disuse, denervation (nerve damage), malnutrition and certain illnesses which can be reversed when the underlying condition is treated and with proper muscle stimulation exercise and specialise treatment specifically like MMR, the condition can reverse.
○ Dystrophy - is muscle wasting due to genetic disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. It cannot be reversed but with proper exercise and specialised techniques like MMR, the symptoms and progression of the condition can be slowed.○ Sarcopenia - Muscle wasting due to ageing, not reversible. MMR can be very effective for this condition
● Poor Blood Circulation in the muscles - as result of
○ Repetitive or overused muscles
○ Old or recent Injuries due to sports and trauma
○ MMR is specially developed to improve poor circulation in muscles and can be especially effective to reverse and improve the muscle strength for this condition.

How can you help me?
Meridian Muscle Restoration (MMR) works by releasing tension in your soft tissues and improving blood and chi circulation. This unique, hands-on technique targets muscle knots, fascia restrictions, trigger points, and joint stiffness, restoring mobility and reducing pain. Many patients experience immediate relief during the session, with feedback such as a warm sensation, improved mobility, and a feeling of relaxation. Over time, MMR can help alleviate chronic musculoskeletal pain and discomfort, improving overall well-being.

What makes you different from all the other therapies I've been to?
MMR combines the best of both evidence-based physiotherapy and alternative therapies like fascia manipulation, joint mobilization, sports massage, and Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches like tuina and acupressure. This integrative approach is highly individualized, focusing on addressing the root causes of musculoskeletal issues by improving circulation and releasing tension. Many patients report experiencing immediate and noticeable improvements in pain, mobility, and overall well-being after just one session.

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### Appointments and Practical Information

How do I make an appointment?
You can book an appointment by calling or sending a WhatsApp message to [+60122872793](tel:+60122872793) or by visiting the website [here](https://amtherapy.my).

What are your operating hours?
We are open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM by appointment only. No walk-ins are allowed.

Where is the clinic located?
Advanced Muscle Therapy is located at No 1, Jalan 17/49, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. [Google Maps link](https://maps.app.goo.gl/itLPFoQaMZKfNnzf9?g_st=awb).

What types of service package are available?
- Standard Muscle Therapy: 60 minutes, suitable for treating 1-2 problem areas (RM 150)
- Advanced Muscle Therapy: 90 minutes, for multiple areas or chronic conditions (RM 200)
- Pro Muscle Therapy: 120 minutes, a comprehensive treatment for long-term conditions (RM 250)
Special Membership Package
- Ultimate Muscle Therapy: A 20-session package (RM 1350), with the flexibility to customize the session length (e.g., 60, 90, or 180 minutes). The package can be shared with friends and family and is valid for 1 year.

Are there any special offers?
Yes, first-time patients can use the promo code “WELCOME10” for a 10% discount on their first booking made online.

Do you do home service / visits?
Yes, we offer home visits within a 30 km radius of the clinic. There is a minimum booking for three Standard Muscle Therapy sessions (RM 450) plus an additional RM 50 transport charge.

Do you have a female therapist, as I am more comfortable to be attended by one.
Currently we have a female apprentice under training. She will be assisting and shadowing our master therapist (male) during most sessions. Do let us know your preference when you make an appointment with us.

What payment methods are accepted?
We accept cash, bank transfers, and QR payments via Maybank and Touch 'n Go.

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### Treatment and Sessions

How many sessions are recommended?
Typically, three sessions are recommended, with a one-week gap between each. Results vary, but most patients experience a 30-50% improvement per session.

What can I expect during my first session?
Most patients experience improvement in terms of reduced unpleasant sensation like pain and stiffness. Some of the stories we heard are that they had the best sleep ever, and that they haven't felt this good for a long time especially for chronic conditions. Many who have gone through numerous other different therapies will find ours a bit refreshing and different because they have never seen or experienced a similar one before. Those who are appreciative, compared the experience as having found a good mine or hitting the jackpot because this is the type of feel good treatment that they are always looking for but not found before. This is because very few therapists are currently practised and trained in MMR.

How should patients prepare for a session?
Come in comfortable clothing - T shirts and long pants are recommended. Patients, especially women and those who have doubts about first time treatment, are welcome to bring a companion if they are not comfortable attending the session alone as the main therapist is a man. They may also bring along a report of a previous medical scan or report.

Are there any side effects from MMR?
Besides the positive, there are some side effects from MMR. Bruises may develop at the site of treatment as a result of microscopic breaking of bad muscle cells from the treatment, resulting in rupture of blood vessels which appear as bruises. However not to worry as the body circulation system will clear up the bruises after a few days time. First time patients will likely feel sore, tired, and have elevated pain the following day and likely lasting up to 3 days. There are cases when these symptoms last more than 1 week but are extremely rare. This phenomenon is called the delayed onset muscle syndrome (DOMS). It's the same condition after a heavy physical workout. Doms happen as a result of the body repairs itself. A MMR session involves some breaking up of bad muscle tissues, and this creates an inflammatory response in the body to initiate a healing phase. As a result the body creates a discomfort condition to the person to signal them to slow down and rest while the repair process takes place with minimal interruptions. Aggressive Doms are usually reserved for first time patients as subsequent sessions may not trigger the same DOMS effect as much.

How can this technique be integrated into a broader treatment plan?
MMR can be an addition and integrate into any existing ongoing mainstream physio treatment.This is because MMR is considered a safe and complementary physio treatment which can rapidly speed recovery with no downside except for doms effects on the first session

Are there any contraindications?
Patients who are pregnant, active fracture case, active flu infection and general sickness are advised to visit us when they are no longer in these condition

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### Evidence and Effectiveness

Is there scientific evidence supporting MMR?
While the technique itself does not have direct peer-reviewed studies, it incorporates principles from therapies that are backed by scientific research, such as deep tissue massage.

How does MMR compare to other treatments?

MMR is seen as more comprehensive than other therapies. For example:
- Chiropractic focuses on nerve compression due to spinal subluxation.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine targets chi imbalances.
- Western medicine treats symptoms through medication or surgery.
- Physiotherapy addresses muscle stiffness and weakness through exercises and modalities.

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### Practical Tips for Patients

How should I prepare for a session?
Wear comfortable clothing (e.g., t-shirts, long pants). Women or first-time patients who feel uncomfortable can bring a companion. If possible, bring previous medical reports or scans.

What self-management tips can you recommend?
- Drink plenty of water (0.5–1 liter per 10 kg of body weight)
- Avoid cold environments and use warm clothing, especially at night
- Maintain proper posture and minimize muscle strain
- Exercise safely and ensure adequate rest
- Maintain proper weight management

Do you recommend any products for muscle pain?
We highly recommend the UNIREN Spray for muscle and joint pain. You can purchase it [here](https://amtherapy.my/uniren-spray).

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### Additional Information

Special Mention for DCMS (Delayed Chronic Muscle Syndrome)?
Delay Chronic Muscle Syndrome (DCMS) is not an uncommon idiopathic or unexplained reason for a person developing pain out of nowhere. This condition can affect conditions ranging from pain affecting the whole body like back, hand, legs, head neck etc. Fibromyalgia patients suffering from undiagnosed and unexplained soreness in the whole body are quite likely to fall into the DCMS spectrum. From our understanding, injury never completely heals even after many years. Many of us have unexplained pain, or stiffness or general discomfort. Most of them cannot pinpoint any past incident of injury in recent times. However, questions like what sports they play when they were in schools or if they have any injuries or accident when they were young interestingly reveal that they did engage in aggressive contact sports like football or rugby or they remember an incident when they fell from the trees or fell down on their butt during skiing a long time ago.
Pathophysiology of DCMS occurs due to inflammation marks left because of injuries that may heal but never went away. These marks are latent or dormant and are suppressed by a stronger immune system when 8one is young. It flares up and becomes active when one ages because of degeneration of the immune system. We can usually palpate the trouble areas or spots on the body soft tissues like muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascias. These inflammation markers feel stiff and present themselves like muscle knots, bumps, lumps, bands in various hardness and size and they can appear in different layers of the muscle depths.
We estimate that DCMS occurs in around 15 years give or take 5 years after a major traumatic accident. The formula to project an injury that triggers DCMS is Patient’s Age when the first onset of symptoms occurs minus give or take 15 years. For example Mary is 45 years old but her pain started about 5 years ago, so we take 40 years old (pain started) minus 15 years equals 25 years old. So we can ask them if they have any incidents around that age. Interestingly, this may trigger their memory of a past accident.