Manual Therapy

What is Manual therapy? Manual therapy is a specialized physical therapy method that utilizes specific, hands-on techniques without the assistance of devices or machines. The International Federation of Orthopedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT) defines manual therapy as: Skilled hand movements intended to produce any or all of the following effects: improve tissue extensibility; increase range of […]

Soft Tissue Mobilization

Soft tissue mobilization is often utilized to break up fibrous muscle tissue and relax muscle tension. For example, a therapist may perform soft tissue mobilization around scar tissue buildup resulting from a back injury. The technique itself consists of repeated stretching and pressure around the target musculature.

Joint Mobilization

Joint mobilization is implemented to loosen a restricted joint and increase the range of motion. The painless technique involves slowing providing speed and distance of motion into the barrier of the target joint. Joint mobilization often provides lasting relief from muscle pain that both rest and icing temporarily ease, because the root of the issue […]

Strain-Counterstrain

This technique corrects structural and postural issues, stemming from abnormal neuromuscular reflexes. Performing the technique is extremely gentle. Thus, therapists may prefer this technique in place of other procedures too painful to treat acute or delicate back problems.

Muscle Energy Techniques (METs)

METs utilize voluntary contraction of the muscle against a counterforce to mobilize joints and lengthen shortened muscles. Robert Daul, MPT explains the precise treatment: Following a 3-5 second contraction, the operator takes the joint to its new barrier where the patient again performs a muscle contraction. This may be repeated two or more times. This technique is considered […]

Pilates

What is Pilates? Pilates is a mode of exercise that was first developed in the 1920’s. It has surged in popularity over the past 15 years. Individuals are often hesitant to try Pilates, wondering if they need to be a dancer or have a certain level of fitness to participate. However, one of the many advantages […]

Dry Needling

What is Dry Needling? Dry needling isa very effective form of therapy that is growing in popularity and usage. It involves the use of needles to stimulate and break up knotted or hard muscle tissue – called “trigger points” – usually located deeper in the body. It’s called “dry” because the needle isn’t injecting a […]