Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that involves skilled, hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat soft tissues and joint structures. At ATI Physical Therapy, our certified manual therapists use a combination of techniques, including joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and therapeutic massage, to address a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.

Hands That Heal

About Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that involves hands-on techniques to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal disorders. Skilled practitioners use their hands to manipulate joints, muscles, and soft tissues, aiming to reduce pain, increase range of motion, and improve overall function. This approach is tailored to each patient’s specific needs and can be used to address a wide range of conditions, from chronic back pain to sports injuries, offering a non-invasive alternative or complement to other medical treatments.

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Optimizing Movement

How Does Manual Physical Therapy Work at ATI?

Manual therapy works by applying controlled force to joints, muscles, and connective tissues. Therapists use various techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and stretching to target specific areas of dysfunction. These hands-on methods help to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. By restoring proper alignment and movement patterns, manual therapy can alleviate pain, enhance flexibility, and promote better overall body mechanics.

Addressing Musculoskeletal Challenges

Conditions Our Manual Physical Therapists Treat

Our certified manual therapists heal a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal disharmonies, including:

Improve Muscle Function

The Benefits of Manual Physical Therapy

The benefits of manual physical therapy include:

Pain Relief: Effectively reduces acute and chronic pain by addressing root causes in muscles, joints, and soft tissues.
Improved Mobility: Increases range of motion and flexibility by targeting restrictions in joints and muscles.
Enhanced Healing: Stimulates blood flow and lymphatic drainage, promoting faster recovery and reducing inflammation.
Personalized Care: Tailored to individual needs, ensuring targeted and efficient treatment.
Non-Invasive Approach: Offers a drug-free, surgery-free alternative for managing various musculoskeletal conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Manual Therapy

We understand that patients often have questions about our manual physical therapy services. We are here to provide clarity and assist you in making informed decisions about your treatment.

Is manual therapy painful?

While some techniques may cause temporary discomfort, manual therapy should not be painful. Our therapists are skilled in adjusting their techniques to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment.

How long does a typical manual therapy session last?

Manual therapy is incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan that typically lasts 45-60 minutes.

How many sessions of manual therapy will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your condition and progress. Your therapist will discuss a recommended treatment plan after your initial assessment.

Can manual therapy be combined with other treatments?

Yes, manual therapy is often integrated with other treatments such as exercise therapy, modalities, and patient education for comprehensive care.