Manual therapy uses hands-on techniques to improve range of motion in restricted joints. It is also used to stimulate the function of muscles, nerves, joints, and ligaments. It may be used for a wide range of problems, including low back pain; neck pain and injuries; hip, knee, ankle and foot problems; post-surgical conditions; hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder problems; and injuries caused by accidents.
Manual therapy consists of treatment to the soft tissue with the skillful use of the clinician's hands. Such treatment includes: soft tissue massage, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, trigger point therapy, and manual stretching. This therapy is useful when the muscles are stressed, tense, referring pain, or the joints are tight and restricting motion. Manual therapy helps eliminate muscle congestion, myostatic tension, and muscle guarding.
To work with one's hands.
Manual Therapy encompasses the diagnosis and treatment of the ailments of various etiologies through hands-on intervention. Manual Therapy is practiced by people within various health care professions, including Physiotherapists/Physical Therapists, Massage Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Chiropractors, Osteopaths, Physiatrists and more. Manual Assessment uses a variety of hands-on tests in an effort to determine which structure may be responsible for the pain being assessed.