What is manual therapy?
Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment by clinicians to treat muscle aches, joint pain, and limited range of motion. It encompasses a variety of techniques including soft tissue mobilization of muscles, specific joint mobilization, and joint manipulation.
The three most notable forms of manual therapy are:
- Manipulation - the application of a rapid force into a joint(s) often associated with an audible popping sound called cavitation.
- Mobilization - a slower, more controlled process of articular and soft-tissue stretching intended to improve joint mobility.
- Massage - typically the repetitive rubbing, stripping or kneading of muscle and fascia tissues to facilitate healing.