Manual therapy refers to a range of hands-on techniques used by physical therapists to address issues in muscles, joints, and soft tissues. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. This type of therapy often involves a variety of techniques such as joint mobilization, where gentle movements are applied to stiff or painful joints to increase their range of motion, and soft tissue manipulation, which targets muscles, tendons, and ligaments to release tension, reduce inflammation, and promote circulation.
Manual therapy may also include specific stretching techniques designed to lengthen tight muscles and improve flexibility, as well as myofascial release, which focuses on relieving tightness in the connective tissues surrounding muscles. For patients experiencing restricted movement or muscle imbalances, these techniques can help restore normal movement patterns and alleviate discomfort.