Your Path to Wellness Through Manual Therapy

The therapists at Bodyworks Physical Therapy utilize research-based manual therapy programs and techniques. By definition, manual therapy is the art and science of one-on-one, hands-on interaction between a physical therapist and a patient. The physical therapist uses specific evidence-based techniques to evaluate and treat soft tissue imbalances and joint injuries.
Tailored Treatments for Lasting Results
The treatments we will use to relieve your pain and restore function are based heavily on the osteopathic philosophy that the body functions as an integrated unit. By evaluating and treating dysfunction within the musculoskeletal, myofascial and nervous systems, we can often alleviate pain and ailments in patients who otherwise couldn’t be helped by conventional physical therapy. Some of the techniques used at Bodyworks Physical Therapy include Muscle Energy Technique, Joint Mobilization, Myofascial Release, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), and Strain Counterstrain.
Benefits of Manual Therapy
- Easy patient access with a ground-level aquatic therapy unit
- Accelerated post-surgical rehabilitation
- Reduced inflammation and pain relief
- Increased joint range of motion
- Enhanced mobility and improved muscle strength and flexibility
- Improved balance and coordination
- Effective training without straining joints
- Weightless environment for a pain-free way to exercise
FAQs About Manual Therapy
What is manual therapy?
Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment approach where a physical therapist uses their hands to evaluate and treat soft tissue and joint restrictions. It’s based on the idea that the body functions as one connected system, so treatment often addresses more than just the site of pain.
What techniques are included in manual therapy?
Bodyworks uses several evidence-based manual therapy techniques, including muscle energy technique, joint mobilization, myofascial release, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, and strain counterstrain, chosen based on what your evaluation shows.
What conditions can manual therapy help with?
Manual therapy is used for a wide range of musculoskeletal and soft-tissue issues, including joint stiffness, muscle tightness, and pain that hasn’t responded to more general treatment approaches.
Does manual therapy hurt?
Manual therapy is generally not painful, though certain techniques may cause brief discomfort or soreness, similar to a deep massage. Your therapist adjusts pressure and technique based on your tolerance and goals.
How is manual therapy different from massage?
Massage primarily focuses on relaxation and general muscle tension, while manual therapy is a targeted clinical treatment used to address specific joint and soft-tissue dysfunctions as part of a physical therapy plan of care.
Is manual therapy covered by insurance?
Manual therapy is typically included as part of a covered physical therapy visit rather than billed separately, so it generally falls under your PT benefits. Our team can help verify your specific coverage.
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