Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment by clinicians to treat muscle and joint pain as well as limited range of motion. It encompasses a variety of techniques including soft tissue mobilization of connective tissues, muscles, tendons and ligaments as well as specific joint mobilization and joint manipulation.
The three most notable forms of manual therapy are:
- Soft Tissue Mobilization is typically the repetitive rubbing, stripping or kneading of muscle and fascia tissues to facilitate oxygenation and healing of damaged tissues.
- Joint Mobilization is a slower, more controlled process of articular and soft-tissue stretching intended to improve joint mobility.
- Manipulation is the application of a rapid force into a joint or joints. Manipulation is often associated with an audible popping sound called a cavitation.
Manual therapy has been proven to be an important part of an overall conservative treatment plan for a variety of conditions including, but not limited to:
- Adhesive Capsulitis
- Shoulder Impingement
- Shoulder Stiffness/Limited Range of Motion
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
- Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
- Pinched Nerves
- Limited Joint Range of Motion
- Capsule Tightness
- Post-surgical Stiffness
- Much More
Manual therapy is typically part of a complete treatment plan that is customized for your specific needs. Find out how we can incorporate manual therapy into your rehabilitation program.
