Manual Therapy
Manual therapy is a category of physical therapy treatment encompassing a variety of hands-on techniques. It can be used to increase range of motion, facilitate movement, reduce inflammation and promote soft tissue repair.
What is manual therapy?
A wide variety of treatments fall under the manual therapy umbrella, but the most common thread is that they all involve direct contact from the therapist, with or without the use of a supplemental tool. These techniques can be divided into two categories: soft tissue and joint. During soft tissue work, the therapist applies pressure to specific soft tissue areas to relax muscles, increase circulation and break up scar tissue. When a therapist performs joint techniques, they use measured movements to push, pull or twist joints in order to loosen, release pressure and improve flexibility and alignment.
What are the benefits?
Virtually all patients can benefit from having some type of manual therapy treatment integrated into their care plan. Manual therapy is most effective when delivered as part of a comprehensive care plan involving prescribed exercise, including a home exercise program. From carpal tunnel syndrome to low back pain, this type of care can effectively reduce pain and improve movement. Your physical therapist may use spinal manipulation, joint and soft tissue mobilizations, dry needling, cupping as well as other therapies in your care.
“The confidence I have gained in a long knee injury / pain since coming to Physical Therapy of the Rockies has been tremendous. Other physical therapy clinics send me on my independent way with repetitive exercises. Physical Therapy of the Rockies has given me individualized attention, both hands on and in unique exercises. I have enjoyed my therapy and will be back.”
Kristen B.
Related Services
Many physical therapy services are commonly used in combination. Learn more about our related services.
Spinal Manipulation
Spinal manipulation is a manual therapy technique involving high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts to the spine and...
Read MoreDry Needling
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique in which a trained physical therapist inserts small, sterile,...
Read MoreRequest an Appointment
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