Manual physical therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy delivered with the hands as opposed to a device or machine. For example, practitioners use their hands to put pressure on muscle tissue and manipulate joints in an attempt to decrease back pain caused by muscle spasm, muscle tension and joint dysfunction. At PhysioNorth, this “hands-on” treatment may include:
- Mobilizing a joint within its normal range of movement (versus manipulating a joint beyond its normal range)
- Manual traction
- Muscle stretching
- Muscle resistance
- Active release of a muscle/tendon
- Passive movement of the affected joint or limb
- Soft tissue techniques