Manual therapy refers to hands-on techniques used by the chiropractor to mobilize and manipulate the joints and soft tissues. These techniques help reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function.
Common Manual Therapy Techniques:
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Involves applying pressure to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments to reduce tension, improve circulation, and release knots or adhesions. Techniques include:
- Myofascial Release: A technique that targets the fascia (the connective tissue around muscles), helping release tightness and improve flexibility.
- Trigger Point Therapy: Focuses on applying pressure to "trigger points" or areas of muscle tightness to alleviate pain and improve movement.
- Joint Mobilization: This technique is used to gently move a joint through its range of motion to improve flexibility and decrease stiffness.
- Therapeutic Massage: Used to relax tight muscles, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
