Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a physical hands-on treatment primarily used by physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors and physicians to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Its main goal is to improve mobility in affected areas that are restricted (joints, connective tissue, skeletal muscles). This limitation in the range of motion can cause discomfort, pain, and an alteration in function, posture and movement. Restoring mobility to these stiff joints and reducing muscle tension helps the patient to return to more natural movement free of pain. It can provide relief to both acute and chronic pain.

In principle, manual therapy is constituted of two major techniques, which the therapist will use depending on the problem following a detailed assessment.

During soft tissue work, the therapist applies pressure to soft tissues, such as the muscles. This pressure helps relax the muscles, enhances blood circulation, helps break up scar tissue and provides pain relief in targeted areas.

Mobilization and manipulation can help loosen tight tissues around a joint, reduce pain, and help with flexibility and alignment. The therapist will use measured movements of varying speed, force and amplitude to twist, pull or push joints and bones into the desired position.