What is Manual Therapy?
Here at Bergin Motion manual therapy is the therapy technique that we use most often. We are big believers in the technique but we understand that the majority of people outside our profession don’t understand what it is, how it works, and how can it benefit themselves.
Manual Therapy vs. Massage Therapy
The difference between manual therapy and massage therapy is that manual therapy techniques are based on a thorough understanding of how the body works. Massage therapists do not require the same level of education and training as manual therapists. Massage therapists are not able to assess and treat the same way manual therapists can. Massage therapists work to relax the muscles whereas manual therapists work to assess and treat the source of the problem. Manual therapy is performed by a professional physiotherapist.
What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that provides services to individuals and populations to develop, maintain and restore maximum movement and functional ability throughout their lifespan. This includes providing services in circumstances where movement and function are threatened by aging, injury, pain, diseases, disorders, conditions or environmental factors.
Manual Therapy Techniques
Many different manual therapy techniques can be used depending on the area being treated and the specific problem. The most common techniques used by manual therapists are:
mobilization
manipulation
myofascial release
Each technique is different and has its own benefits. Your manual therapist will choose the best techniques for you based on your specific needs.
Mobilization
Mobilization is a manual therapy technique that uses slow, gentle movements to help improve movement in a joint or tissue. Mobilizations can be done with or without movement of the patient. The goal of mobilization is to increase range of motion and decrease pain.
Manipulation
Manipulation is a manual therapy technique that uses quick, short movements to realign a joint or tissue. Manipulations are often done with the patient lying down. The goal of manipulation is to increase range of motion and decrease pain.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique that uses sustained pressure to release restrictions in the connective tissue (known as the myofascial). Myofascial release can be done with or without movement of the patient. The goal of myofascial release is to increase range of motion and decrease pain.
Massage
Massage is a manual therapy technique that uses long, smooth strokes to relax muscles and improve circulation. Massage can be done with or without the movement of the patient. The goal of massage is to increase relaxation and decrease pain.
What is Soft Tissue?
Soft tissue is the connective tissue that surrounds and supports your muscles. It includes:
tendons
ligaments
fascia
skin
muscles
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are common in both athletes and non-athletes. The most common types of soft tissue injuries are:
strains
sprains
contusions
tendonitis
A soft tissue injury can occur suddenly, such as from a fall or an accident, or it can occur gradually, such as from overuse. Symptoms of a soft tissue injury include:
pain
swelling
bruising
stiffness
If you think you have a soft tissue injury, it is important to see a manual therapist or physiotherapist for an assessment. untreated soft tissue injuries can lead to chronic pain and decreased range of motion.
What is the Myofascial System?
Osteopath performing myofascial release for quadriceps, quads pain releif
The myofascial system is the system of connective tissue that surrounds and supports your muscles. It includes:
tendons
ligaments
fascia
skin
The myofascial system provides support and protection for your muscles. It also helps to transmit force from your muscles to your bones. When there are restrictions in the myofascial system, it can cause pain and decreased range of motion. Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique that is used to release restrictions in the myofascial system. The goal of myofascial release is to decrease pain and increase range of motion.
The Benefits of Manual Therapy
There are many benefits of manual therapy, including:
improved range of motion
decreased pain
improved circulation
improved relaxation
manual therapy can help to treat a wide variety of conditions, including:
headaches
neck pain
shoulder pain
elbow pain
wrist pain
hip pain
ankle pain If you are experiencing any of these problems, manual therapy may be able to help.
Will Manual Therapy Reduce Pain?
Yes, manual therapy can help to reduce pain. The techniques used by manual therapists can help to release restrictions in the myofascial system, which can help to decrease pain. manual therapy can also help to improve movement in a joint or tissue, which can also help to decrease pain.
Is Manual Therapy Safe?
Yes, manual therapy is safe. The techniques used by manual therapists are gentle with slow movements that are not forceful or aggressive. manual therapists are trained and experienced in using these techniques safely.
What Are the Side Effects of Manual Therapy?
There are no known side effects of manual therapy. The techniques used by manual therapists are gentle and slow movements that are not forceful or aggressive. manual therapists are trained and experienced in using these techniques safely.
Is Hands-on the Only Way to Treat?
No, manual therapy is not the only way to treat. manual therapy is one type of treatment that can be used to help reduce pain and improve range of motion. Other types of treatments, such as exercises and stretches, can also be effective. Your manual therapist will work with you to determine the best treatment for your individual needs.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Manual Therapy?
There are no known risks associated with manual therapy. The techniques used by manual therapists are gentle and slow movements that are not forceful or aggressive. manual therapists are trained and experienced in using these techniques safely.
What Does Manual Therapy Feel Like?
Manual therapy should not hurt. The techniques used by manual therapists are gentle and slow movements that are not forceful or aggressive. You may feel a sense of deep relaxation or increased range of motion after a manual therapy session.
How Long Does a Manual Therapy Session Last?
Manual therapy sessions typically last 30-60 minutes. Your manual therapist will work with you to determine the length of time that is best for your individual needs.
What Can I Expect During a Manual Therapy Session?
During a manual therapy session, your manual therapist will assess your condition and develop a treatment plan specifically for you. manual therapy techniques will be used to help reduce pain and improve range of motion. Your manual therapist will work with you to ensure that you are comfortable during the session.
What Should I Do After a Manual Therapy Session?
After a manual therapy session, you may feel more relaxed. You may also notice an improved range of motion and decreased pain. It is important to drink plenty of water after a manual therapy session to help flush the toxins that have been released from your tissues.
How Often Should I Have Manual Therapy?
The frequency of manual therapy depends on your individual needs. Your manual therapist will work with you to determine the best schedule for you.
What Are the Costs Associated With Manual Therapy?
The costs associated with manual therapy depend on the type of insurance that you have. Many insurance plans cover physiotherapy. Your physiotherapist will be able to tell you if your insurance plan covers manual therapy. Manual therapy is billed under physiotherapy and most insurance covers all forms of physiotherapy treatments.
Manual Therapy at Bergin Motion
Manual therapy is a safe and effective treatment for reducing pain and improving range of motion. Manual therapists are trained and experienced in using gentle techniques that are slow and not forceful or aggressive. manual therapy sessions typically last 30-60 minutes. manual therapy may be covered by your insurance plan.
Here at Bergin Motion, our entire focus is helping you to move better. Our physiotherapists will assess you and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs which may include the use of manual therapy.
Additional Resources
Physio-pedia article on manual therapy.
About the Author
Alex Bergin PT is a certified physiotherapist and one of the owners of Bergin Motion. Bergin Motion is a family-run Barrie Physiotherapy Clinic located in Barrie’s Southend. Alex specializes in acquired brain injury rehabilitation. Alex is a certified NDT practitioner. Neuro Development Therapy is a specialized hands-on treatment technique that promotes mobility, balance, core strength and gross motor skills in a playful and fun and dynamic way. Alex is part of a team at Bergin Motion in Barrie, Ontario that works with all kinds of neurological issues.
Bergin Motion
Is a family owned physiotherapy company built by the Bergin family. Our family has served as physiotherapists in the Barrie area for over 30 years, spanning two generations. We are passionate about this community and helping people achieve their highest potential. Book with us now!