Three types of manual therapy — and how they help

Manual therapy is a term for a number of hands-on techniques that a physical therapist uses to help patients recover from injuries, chronic pain and post-surgical rehabilitation. The objective is to help relax tense muscles, increase blood flow to injured areas and mobilize soft tissue and joints. Along with therapeutic exercise, manual therapy is a central part of physical therapy, helping patients regain range of motion and return to a normal level of activity.

To help you learn more about manual therapy and have a better idea about what to expect from physical therapy treatment, we’re sharing three specific techniques that therapists commonly use. As you read this over, feel free to reach out to us with any questions that you have. The team at Peak Performance Sports and Physical Therapy is here to help.

1. Soft tissue and joint mobilization

As the name implies, mobilization is a form of manual therapy that involves encouraging movement in injured areas of the body, such as dysfunctional joints or strained muscles. The therapist uses gentle, slow movements to activate joints or gentle pressure to break up and relax tense, fibrous muscle tissue. Combined with other treatments, this can help restore function to areas that were previously limiting mobility.

2. Strain-counterstrain

This technique is designed to relax spastic muscles by holding a specific position, typically for 90 seconds, and then gently pulling away from it. The goal is to restore mobility and decompress tissue that has been under pressure due to injury.

3. Myofascial release

Also known as trigger point therapy, myofascial release involves a therapist using his or her hands to break up and release irritable bundles of soft tissue that are often sources of pain and limited mobility.

Manual therapy at Peak Performance

At our locations in New Bern, Havelock, Winterville, Swansboro and Jacksonville, North Carolina, we have highly skilled and experienced therapists who practice manual therapy and other physical therapy techniques to help patients find the relief they deserve. When you come to us for treatment, you can expect to be treated with compassion and a collaborative approach designed to provide you with personalized care. To learn more about our manual therapy and other treatment offerings, contact us today to schedule your initial appointment.