Are you an active person recovering from an injury? Chances are, you may be in need of physical, occupational and or speech therapy. The purpose to physical, occupational and speech therapy is to help a patient recover from an injury, address muscle dysfunction or improve functional outcomes.
One tool in helping to achieve these goals is through the use of Manual Therapy.
What is Manual Therapy?
Manual Therapy incorporates therapeutic touch to promote healing and relaxation of the surrounding tissues. It is a hands-on approach to decrease musculoskeletal pain and joint joint/soft tissue restrictions. Manual Therapy techniques require skilled hand movements and passive joint movements to improve range of motion, tissue mobility, swelling, inflammation and restrictions that decrease a person’s ability to participate in their normal, every-day activities.
Benefits of Manual Therapy
- Reduce pain
- Improve joint mobility
- Improve range of motion
- Decrease muscle tension/spasm
- Improve flexibility
- Neurophysiological effects: decreasing a patient’s sensitivity and pain perception
- Improve motor control
- Improve overall function
Manual Therapy Techniques
Soft Tissue Work:
This Involves applying pressure to decrease tension, improve circulation, reduce inflammation/pain and decrease bands of scar and fibrous tissue. Soft tissue techniques can be applied to muscles, tendons and nerves. Cupping, Dry needing and Tool Assisted therapy are all great techniques to aid in soft tissue work.
Mobilization and Manipulation:
This technique involves the passive movement of joints in the spine and extremities. Joint Mobilization/Manipulation helps to reduce pain, improve joint flexibility, improves function and targets stiff or tight tissues restricting movement.
Is Manual Therapy for Everyone?
Your Therapist will perform a thorough evaluation to assess your needs. Manual Therapy techniques may not be appropriate for everyone, but can be very beneficial for the following conditions:
- Neck/Back pain
- Hand and wrist injuries
- Elbow and shoulder injuries
- Hip issues
- Knee pain
- Ankle and foot issues
- Headaches
- Muscle tension and spasms
Schedule an Appointment
Our team of Therapists at The Rehabilitation Institute are trained to perform a variety of Manual Therapy techniques. To schedule an appointment or ask a question, please call our office at (770) 219-8200.