Manual Therapy

Also known as hands-on therapy, manual therapy uses no devices or machines. Instead, physiotherapist/chiropractors use only their hands while performing skilled, specific hands-on techniques. In general, manual therapy includes soft tissue work and mobilization/manipulation.

When performing soft tissue work, therapists apply pressure to the soft tissues of the body, such as the muscles. This pressure can help relax muscles, increase circulation, break up scar tissue, and reduce or eliminate soft tissue inflammation.

With manual therapy, clinicians also commonly mobilize and manipulate joints. The mobilization/manipulation allows therapists to twist, pull, or push bones and joints into position. This can help loosen tight tissues around a joint, reduce pain in a joint and surrounding tissue, and help with flexibility and alignment.

Manual therapy can be helpful for the treatment of a wide range of problems, including:

*    Muscle spasms
*    Muscle tension
*    Low back pain
*    Neck pain and injuries
*    Hip, knee, ankle and foot problems
*    Hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder problems
*    Injuries caused by accidents