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Robert Moghim MD

Anchor Healthcare

Manual Therapy / Chiropractic Care

1746885837

Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment to relieve pain, stiffness, and limited movement in muscles and joints, often used for back or neck pain. Techniques like joint mobilization and soft tissue manipulation apply gentle pressure and controlled movements to release muscle tension, improve flexibility, and restore normal movement.

During a 15 minute session, a therapist gently stretches, massages, or mobilizes the affected area, reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and promoting healing. Multiple sessions are typically needed for optimal results.

Manual therapy helps with chronic back pain, neck stiffness, muscle spasms, and joint discomfort. It enhances mobility and manages swelling or inflammation in soft tissues. Beyond symptom relief, manual therapy prevents the progression of musculoskeletal conditions by maintaining joint and muscle function, reducing the risk of further degeneration and disability.

Alternatives to manual therapy include therapeutic exercises to strengthen muscles, chiropractic manipulative therapy for spinal adjustments, and physical treatments like heat therapy or ultrasound, based on your condition.

Manual therapy is generally safe, but some may experience temporary soreness or mild bruising. Inform your therapist about conditions like osteoporosis or recent injuries, which may affect your treatment plan. A healthcare provider's evaluation ensures manual therapy suits your needs.

If you face muscle or joint pain and seek to improve movement and prevent long-term issues, consult your medical team or therapist to determine if manual therapy can help you stay active and pain-free.

FAQs

Are there alternatives to manual therapy?

Yes, alternatives to manual therapy include therapeutic exercises to strengthen muscles, chiropractic manipulative therapy for spinal adjustments, and physical treatments like heat therapy or ultrasound. The choice of alternative depends on your specific condition and treatment goals.

How long does a typical manual therapy session last, and how many sessions are usually needed?

A manual therapy session typically lasts about 15 minutes. However, multiple sessions are often required for optimal results, as this treatment works gradually to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote healing.

Is manual therapy safe, and what precautions should be taken?

Manual therapy is generally safe, but some individuals may experience temporary soreness or mild bruising. It's essential to inform your therapist of any conditions such as osteoporosis or recent injuries, as these may affect your treatment plan. A healthcare provider's evaluation can help determine if manual therapy is suitable for your needs.

What conditions can manual therapy help with?

Manual therapy is effective for managing chronic back pain, neck stiffness, muscle spasms, and joint discomfort. It enhances mobility, manages swelling or inflammation, and helps prevent the progression of musculoskeletal conditions by maintaining joint and muscle function.

What is manual therapy, and how does it work?

Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment designed to alleviate pain, stiffness, and restricted movement in muscles and joints. Techniques like joint mobilization and soft tissue manipulation apply gentle pressure and controlled movements. This helps to release muscle tension, increase flexibility, and restore normal movement, often providing relief for conditions such as back and neck pain.