Matrix Rhythm Therapy

Original Editor - Kaviesha Madurapperuma

Top Contributors - Kaviesha Madurapperuma, Alicia Fernandes, Angeliki Chorti and Kim Jackson  

Introduction

Matrix Rhythm Therapy (MRT) (MaRhyThe) is an advancement in physiotherapy that uses the basic concept of vibration and massage. MRT was founded by Dr. Ulrich G. Randoll. It is directly derived from the clinical and fundamental video microscopic research of Erlangan University (Dr. Randoll) in the 1990s. This treatment helps to activate and balance the normal physiological vibrations of the skeletal muscles and nervous system. To date, MRT has been used in 28 countries including India, Australia, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

Mechanism of Action

MRT is a cell biological therapy that activates and rebalances special physiological vibrations of skeletal muscles and the nervous system. During disease, energy metabolism is deficient at the cellular level and it must be normalised before any adequate therapy. MRT reactivates the cell metabolism and normalizes the physiological process by depth-effective rhythmical phase synchronous magneto-mechanical oscillations. MRT modulated between 8-12 Hz of frequency.

In this process of oscillation and vibration, cells are stimulated and the entire tissue is rhythmically resynchronized. It has been proposed that the MRT machine rebalances the cellular micro-processes depending on entire cellular regeneration and healing acting based on cell biology by way of micro-stretching.

The contracted areas of musculature will be inductively relaxed by increased circulation which increases oxygenated blood followed by ATP synthesis and dissolution of the tension. The immediate effect can be seen as the relaxation of tissue, muscle, and fascia. This relaxation remains longer and maintained as the metabolic process at the cellular level is regulated and oxygen supply to cells is improved.

Let's break down the mechanism of action of Matrix Rhythm Therapy (MRT) in a simpler way, relevant to both physiotherapists and patients:

1. Cellular Activation and Rebalancing: MRT works like a "cellular tune-up" by activating and rebalancing the special vibrations of muscles and the nervous system. Think of it as giving your cells a gentle massage to get them back into a healthy rhythm.

2. Boosting Energy Metabolism: When you're sick or injured, your cells may not have enough energy to function properly. MRT helps kickstart the cellular metabolism, kind of like jump-starting a car, so that your cells can do their job effectively.

3. Rhythmic Oscillations: MRT uses gentle vibrations at a frequency of 8-12 Hz to stimulate your cells. These vibrations help synchronize the activity of your cells and tissues, promoting overall harmony and balance in your body.

4. Stimulating Healing Processes: By rebalancing the cellular processes, MRT promotes healing and regeneration. It's like giving your body a gentle nudge in the right direction, helping it to repair itself more efficiently.

5. Improved Blood Circulation and Oxygen Supply: MRT increases blood circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your cells. This helps your muscles relax, reduces tension, and promotes a sense of relaxation and well-being.

6. Long-lasting Effects: The effects of MRT are not just temporary. By regulating cellular metabolism and improving oxygen supply, the relaxation and healing effects can last longer, providing sustained relief and improvement in tissue health.

For physiotherapists, understanding the mechanism of action of MRT helps in explaining the therapy to patients and guiding them through the treatment process. For patients, knowing how MRT works can help them feel more confident and informed about the benefits of the therapy for their recovery and well-being.

Effect of Matrix Rhythm Therapy on Human Tissue

During the state of disease condition where there is swelling, inflammation, tightness, or spasticity cells do not get space to oscillate. This restricts the flow of oxygen. Mitochondria which is called power house of the cells do not get enough oxygen to produce energy leading to further contraction of tissue and muscle, restricting the movement and causing pain.

MRT provides oscillations between 8-12 Hz. This synchronizes with the body to re-establish the disturbed rhythm at cellular level. It improves the oxygen supply by improving the microcirculation thereby improving the energy production causing the relaxation of tissue, muscle, and fascia.

Effect of Matrix Rhythm Therapy on Body Systems

Physiological

• Activation of metabolism
• Acceleration of venous and lymphatic flow
• Activation of the immune system
• Normalization of alpha-gamma tension of the musculature
• Neuromuscular activation via the reflex arcs
• Targeted relaxation of local muscular spasms
• Targeted removal of muscular remanence

Chemical

• Reduction of viscosity
• Reduction of the interstitial PH value
• Increase of tissue temperature to normal temperature

Physical

• Reduction of tissue fluid absorption
• Targeted strengthening of the muscle’s own resonance
• Restoration of the colloid osmotic tissue tonus
• Establishment of individual good resonance through resonance spectrum adaptation
• Support action for the tissue characteristic attractor
• Improvement of the mechanical-magnetic coherence

Indications

• Acceleration of regeneration in cases of chronic degenerative diseases - Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis
• Improvement of reduced joint mobility - Post trauma, post immobilization, frozen shoulder
• Acceleration of functional and structural nerve regeneration - Carpal tunnel syndrome, motor neuron disease, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy
• Reduction of swelling - Hematoma, oedema, lymphatic blockages
• Improvement of elasticity- Pes equines, scars, adhesions, contracture, scleroderma, posture problems
• Pain management for acute or chronic conditions- Overstretching of muscle fibres, zoster, neuralgia, backache, paresthesia, phantom limb pain, migraine
• Acceleration of tissue healing – Non healing ulcers, burn injuries

Contraindications

• Open, inflamed or infected skin surfaces
• Fresh fractures
• Tendency for bleeding, hematoma formation
• Tendency towards embolism
• Pace maker
• Mucous membranes
• Direct contact to bones

Evidence-Based studies

While there is some anecdotal evidence and positive testimonials from patients who have undergone MRT, there is limited scientific research to support its effectiveness. Most of the research on MRT has been conducted by Dr. Randoll and his colleagues, which raises questions about potential bias.

The study titled "The Effectiveness of Matrix Rhythm Therapy in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain" published in SPINE in June 2021 supports the use of Matrix Rhythm Therapy (MRT) in treating chronic low back pain. The study involved 32 participants who received either MRT in addition to a combined physiotherapy program or the physiotherapy program alone. Results showed that both groups experienced significant improvements in pain, disability level, and quality of life. However, the group receiving MRT showed greater improvements in general health perceptions compared to the control group. This study provides evidence supporting the efficacy of MRT in treating chronic low back pain when used with other physiotherapy modalities.

The article titled "The application of matrix rhythm therapy as a new clinical modality in burn physiotherapy programmes" discusses the use of Matrix Rhythm Therapy (MRT) as part of physiotherapy for patients with burn injuries. The study was conducted at Dr. Lütfi Kırdar Kartal Education and Research Hospital in Istanbul between October 2010 and August 2011.

The study included patients with second- and third-degree burns who were 1 to 3 months post-burn trauma. A treatment protocol including whirlpool, MRT, and exercise was applied to the patients. The evaluation included assessment of pain, range of motion, muscle strength, skin flexibility, and sensory function before and after treatment.

The results showed a significant increase in range of motion and sensory function after treatment. While there were no significant differences in pain, muscle strength, and flexibility, pain levels decreased and muscle strength and flexibility improved.

The authors suggest that MRT can help maintain and improve range of motion and minimize the development of scar tissue in burn patients. They call for more randomised controlled studies to compare MRT with other treatments and investigate its long-term effects.

Overall, while there is some preliminary evidence to suggest that MRT may be effective for certain conditions, such as musculoskeletal pain and tissue dysfunction, more high-quality research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and understand its mechanisms of action. As with any new therapy, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting treatment and to consider the potential risks and benefits.

Conclusion

While there is some preliminary evidence supporting the efficacy of MRT, such as the study on chronic low back pain, it's important to note that there is limited scientific research on this therapy. Much of the existing research has been conducted by Dr. Randoll and his colleagues, which raises questions about potential bias. Additionally, the study on burn injuries suggests that MRT can help improve range of motion and sensory function, but more high-quality research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the long-term effects of MRT.

As with any new therapy, it's important to approach MRT with caution and consult with a healthcare professional before starting treatment. While there is potential for MRT to be an effective modality in physiotherapy, more research is needed to establish its efficacy and safety.