Our physical therapists are trained in hands-on (manual) therapy to treat muscle aches, joint pain, and limited range of motion. It encompasses a variety of techniques including soft tissue mobilization of muscles, specific joint mobilization, and joint manipulation.
The three most notable forms of manual therapy are:
- Manipulation is the application of a rapid force into a joint(s). Manipulation is often associated with an audible popping sound called cavitation.
- Mobilization is a slower, more controlled process of articular and soft-tissue stretching intended to improve joint mobility.
- Massage is typically the repetitive rubbing, stripping or kneading of muscle and fascia tissues to facilitate healing.
Your physical therapist will use his or her hands to assess the area of pain and accurately diagnose the issue in its entirety. Most of the time, the root cause of your pain is NOT the area where you are feeling the pain. For example, research shows tight hips contribute to knee and back pain. Manual therapy allows our physical therapists to release the aggravated muscles, so your joints move better, alleviating the stress and pain.
Manual therapy has been proven to help decrease pain, increase mobility, and improve your ability to live your life pain free. It is an important part of an overall conservative treatment plan for a variety of conditions including:
- Adhesive Capsulitis
- Shoulder Impingement
- Shoulder Stiffness/Limited Range of Motion
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
- Golfers Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
- Pinched Nerves
- Limited Joint Range of Motion
- Capsule Tightness
- Postsurgical Stiffness
- Much More
Manual therapy is typically part of a complete treatment plan that is customized for your specific needs. Give us a call to learn how we can incorporate manual therapy into your rehabilitation program.
