Manual therapy is a hands-on healing approach involving skilled manipulation of soft tissues and joints. It is a holistic approach to healthcare that aims to improve a patient's physical function and reduce pain through various techniques, such as massage, joint mobilization, and stretching.
Depending on the magnitude of your pain, therapists can recommend manual therapy. It’s a specialized physical therapy method that integrates proper hands-on techniques without the assistance of machines or devices.
As per IFOMPT, the International Federation of Orthopedic Manipulative Physical Therapists, the definition of manual therapy is the production of all or any of the effects, such as improving tissue extensibility, inducing relaxation, manipulating or mobilizing joints and soft tissues, modulating pain, changing muscle functionality, and reducing movement restriction, inflammation, and tissue swelling.
Before beginning manual therapy, a thorough body assessment is done to determine its safety and identify individual needs. Specific techniques are then used accordingly.
Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique used to alleviate pain and discomfort in trigger points, which are tender or restricted areas of the muscles. The therapist applies light pressure to these points, often using hands or specialized tools, while the patient relaxes to release tension.
Therapists often use this to break up muscle tissue fibers and relax muscle tension. Your therapist may perform the procedure around the accumulation of scar tissue emanating from the back injury.
You implement this therapy for loosening a restricted joint and enhancing the range of motion. It’s a painless technique that slows down the motion distance and speed. This therapy is commonly employed to address chronic conditions and injuries that impact the joints, such as tendonitis and arthritis. During a session, the practitioner will use their hands to manipulate the joint, restoring its normal range of motion and helping to alleviate pain.
Muscle energy techniques involve voluntary muscle contraction against a counterforce to stretch shortened muscles and mobilize joints. Strain-counterstrain technique corrects posture and neuromuscular issues gently and is used for delicate or acute back problems as a less invasive alternative.
A therapist shows where adhesions come from through touch.
The practitioner applies a low amplitude, high velocity, and passive thrust to a joint complex. The thrust remains within its anatomical ambit. The main aim is to restore maximum function and motion and reduce pain.
Trigger point therapy is a type of manual therapy used to treat chronic pain by targeting trigger points in muscles. Practitioners use finger pressure to identify and release muscle tightness.
Dry needling is a manual therapy that uses thin acupuncture needles to target trigger points and alleviate discomfort, tension, and improve flexibility. It can be used to treat chronic pain, joint pain, and muscle tension.
It can cause common, temporary adverse effects such as muscle soreness and stiffness. However, spinal stretching and manipulation are not included. Women may report experiencing more negative effects than men.
You often use manual therapy technique for issues emanating from the spinal cord, including chronic and acute back pain. However, you can implement the technique for treating various issues.
Manual therapy can be used for treating the thoracic spine. It also effectively treats hip bursitis, myofascial pain, hip impingement, and post-surgery hip replacements.
Manual therapy has no absolute contraindications, but there are some conditions for which you need to take precautions.
Not all physical therapists perform manual therapy despite having some experience with it. Specialized training, skills, and years of practice are required to perform this technique as a part of rehabilitation. It requires practitioners to have a special ability to discern tissue anomalies without imaging assistants.
Communicate medical conditions/allergies/medications to the therapist to prepare for manual therapy. Wear loose clothing, arrive well-rested/hydrated, and follow therapist guidelines to maximize treatment effectiveness.
After manual therapy, you may experience some soreness or discomfort in the treated area, but this should subside within a day or two. It's essential to follow any aftercare instructions provided by your therapist, such as doing prescribed exercises, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activity. It's also recommended to continue regular communication with your therapist to monitor progress and address any concerns that arise. In some cases, additional sessions may be necessary to achieve optimal results.
Neck pain needs traction or CPR, Clinical Prediction Rule. It identifies patients with chronic and acute neck pain.
Massage is another prominent therapy. It’s the genesis of physiotherapy. Posture, hand position, and physical contact are the main determinants of massage.
Finding the right therapist is crucial if you are seeking manual therapy to address your musculoskeletal concerns. PhysioTattva offers skilled and personalized manual therapy treatment plans for various musculoskeletal concerns. Our experienced therapists can provide safe and effective care tailored to individual needs. Choose PhysioTattva to find the right therapist for you and achieve optimal health and wellness.
At Physio Tattva, we are committed to bring access to quality physio care through ultra-modern clinics and high-skilled practitioners to all. Our world-class therapists keep a strong focus on patient needs and deliver the highest level of care.
