Manual therapy

Key Techniques in Manual Therapy:

1. Joint Mobilization

   • Involves repetitive, gentle movements to increase joint range of motion and relieve stiffness.
   • Helps restore normal joint mechanics.

2. Joint Manipulation

   • A quick, controlled movement applied to a joint to improve mobility.
   • Often accompanied by a “popping” or “cracking” sound due to the release of gas bubbles in the joint.

3. Soft Tissue Mobilization (Massage)

   • Targeted techniques to relax tight muscles, reduce scar tissue, and improve blood flow.
   • Includes deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy.

4. Muscle Energy Techniques (METs)

   • Uses the patient’s own muscle contractions to relax and lengthen muscles and mobilize joints.

5. Myofascial Release

   • Gentle, sustained pressure applied to fascia (connective tissue) to relieve restrictions and enhance movement.

6. Neural Mobilization

   • Techniques to mobilize nerves that may be restricted or compressed, relieving symptoms like pain, tingling, or numbness.

Benefits of Manual Therapy:

• Pain Relief: Reduces pain by addressing muscle tension, joint dysfunction, and inflammation.
• Improved Mobility: Restores range of motion in stiff or restricted joints and muscles.
• Enhanced Circulation: Promotes blood flow, aiding in tissue healing and reducing swelling.
• Postural Correction: Aligns the body to reduce strain and prevent injury.
• Relaxation: Releases muscle tension, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.

Conditions Treated with Manual Therapy:

• • Joint Disorders: Arthritis, frozen shoulder, and joint instability.
  • Muscle Strains and Sprains
  • Back and Neck Pain: Including herniated discs and postural issues.
  • Sports Injuries
  • Headaches: Especially those caused by tension or neck problems.
  • Post-Surgical Rehabilitation