Manual therapy is a specialized form used during physical therapy in Port Jefferson Station. It consists of physical therapists using their hands to manipulate the body rather than working with machines or equipment. At Island Sports Physical Therapy, we offer manual therapy during sessions with our physical therapists. Continue reading to learn how manual therapy can be beneficial to you.

 

What is Manual Therapy?

Manual therapy can be used to treat a variety of symptoms and conditions. It is most effective when used alongside other rehab techniques such as exercise or pain-relieving modalities offered during physical therapy in Port Jefferson Station. During manual therapy, pressure is put on muscle tissue, and joints are manipulated. The technique can be beneficial to the body by doing the following: 

 

• Increasing muscle flexibility
• Relaxing muscles
• Improving range of motion of a joint
• Decreasing pain

 

How to Decide if Manual Therapy Is Right for You

Typical physical therapy can consist of exercises, hot or cold treatments, rehabilitation, or manual therapy. During your first session of physical therapy in Port Jefferson Station, the physical therapist will examine and assess your symptoms and concerns. They will also ask you about your medical history and administer tests to measure the following:

 

• How well you can move around
• How well you can walk
• Your heartbeat and rhythm while active
• Your posture and balance

 

The objective of the assessment is to find out what form of physical therapy will be most beneficial to your condition. Manual therapy can be the type of physical therapy our physical therapist recommends if you need a hands-on approach.

 

Therapeutic Techniques Used During Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is considered a hands-on treatment because the physical therapist physically maneuvers your body with their hands. Some examples of the techniques the physical therapist may use during manual therapy include:

 

• Soft tissue massage- Strokes or gliding motions are done on muscular or connective tissue to relax tissues, increase mobility, or decrease pain in the region.
• Joint manipulation- The joint is taken beyond its normal range of motion to improve mobility and decrease pain levels.
• Joint mobilization- The joint is slowly and repeatedly moved within its range of motion to promote mobility and increase its range of motion.
• Friction massage- Massage is used to break up scar tissue to promote healing and reduce pain.
• Passive stretching- Extending muscles to improve range of motion and flexibility.

 

Conditions Physical Therapy in Port Jefferson Station May Help

Manual therapy can help relieve symptoms associated with certain injuries and conditions. Some examples of conditions manual therapy can help treat include:

 

• Ankle and foot problems
• Hand and wrist issues
• Hip problems
• Knee injuries
• Low back pain
• Muscle spasms
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain

 

Contact Our Office: Physical Therapy in Port Jefferson Station

Manual therapy gives a hands-on treatment approach. It can help relieve pain and improve the range of motion of particular body parts. If you are interested in meeting with one of our physical therapists, contact our facility. At Island Sports Physical Therapy, we offer physical therapy in Port Jefferson Station to help our patients recover.