Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a hands-on approach used by physical therapists to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It involves manipulating soft tissues and joints to restore movement, reduce pain, and improve overall function.

At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our skilled team of physical therapists uses advanced manual therapy techniques to help patients achieve optimal recovery. Contact one of our offices in Northeast Ohio today to book your visit!

Conditions That Can Be Treated with Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is effective for a variety of conditions, particularly those involving the musculoskeletal system. It can assist with:

Neck pain
Shoulder pain
Back pain
Joint stiffness
Scar tissue
Chronic pain
Limited range of motion

Orthopaedic manual physical therapists often focus on relieving pain and improving mobility for patients who have experienced sports injuries, joint problems, or post-surgical complications. Athletes, individuals dealing with joint issues, and those recovering from accidents often benefit from manual physical therapy.

Techniques Used in Manual Therapy

Manual therapy encompasses a range of hands-on techniques designed to address soft tissue and joint dysfunction. Some common manual therapy techniques include:

Soft tissue mobilization: This involves applying pressure to soft tissues, such as muscles and fascia, to reduce tension and break down scar tissue.
Joint mobilization and manipulation: These techniques focus on increasing joint mobility and reducing stiffness.
Myofascial release: Targeting the fascia, this technique helps improve range of motion and reduce pain.
Muscle energy techniques: These use controlled muscle contractions to relax tight muscles and improve mobility.

Our physical therapists tailor these manual therapy interventions to the unique needs of each patient, ensuring an effective treatment plan.

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Benefits of Manual Therapy

Manual therapy offers numerous benefits, particularly when integrated with a comprehensive physical therapy treatment plan. Some of the key benefits include:

Pain relief: Targeting the source of discomfort in muscles, joints, and soft tissues can help reduce pain.
Improved mobility: Manual techniques are effective for increasing range of motion in affected joints and muscles.
Faster recovery: By promoting circulation and breaking down scar tissue, manual therapy can speed up the healing process.
Reduced stiffness: Soft tissue mobilization and other techniques can ease tightness and stiffness, helping patients move more freely.

Patients dealing with conditions such as shoulder pain, neck pain, and chronic joint pain often experience significant improvement through manual therapy interventions.

Manual Therapy Compared to Other Forms of Therapy

While manual therapy shares similarities with chiropractic care and massage therapy, there are key differences in approach and outcomes.

Manual therapy vs. Chiropractic: Chiropractic care often focuses on spinal manipulation to address misalignments. Manual physical therapy, on the other hand, incorporates a broader range of techniques, targeting muscles, joints, and soft tissues throughout the body to reduce pain and restore function.
Manual therapy vs. Massage therapy: Massage therapy generally focuses on relaxation and tension relief in soft tissue. While beneficial, it doesn’t address joint function or muscle imbalances as thoroughly as manual physical therapy techniques.

The personalized approach of a physical therapist ensures that manual therapy is specifically aimed at improving movement and reducing pain based on each patient’s unique condition.

How We Can Help

At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, we understand the importance of individualized care. Our physical therapists are highly trained in advanced manual therapy techniques to help patients recover from injuries, manage chronic pain, and regain their mobility. By combining manual therapy with other forms of physical therapy treatment, we offer a comprehensive approach to health and healing.

Whether you’re a student-athlete recovering from injury, or an individual seeking relief from chronic pain, our team of specialists is here to help. With four convenient locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, Middlefield, and Geneva, Ohio, we’re ready to support you on your journey to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you feel your best!

Medically reviewed by Brian Filisky, D.C.

Sources

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Orthopaedic Surgeon

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Andrew Helber

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Deborah Pawlak

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Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is a leading provider of orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, podiatry, physical therapy, athletic training, and state-of-the-art medical imaging including MRI.

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