At Continuum, our clinicians incorporate hands-on techniques to assess and treat a range of injuries. These techniques – known collectively as Manual Therapy – are used to modulate pain, improve range of motion, relax muscles, and restore physical function. When used in combination with an active rehabilitation program, Manual Therapy can facilitate effective recovery from injury.
Some of the primary techniques used by our practitioners are mobilizations, manipulations, and traction – all of which are helpful in the treatment of conditions involving a joint. For example, during joint mobilization, a practitioner manually facilitates the natural movement of a patient’s joints through gentle, oscillatory movements. Conversely, joint manipulations include a small amplitude, high-velocity thrust often accompanied by cavitation or “cracking” sound. Finally, traction involves the application of a gentle tensioning force to the joint, which creates a sensation of decompression. All of these techniques can effectively reduce pain and restore range of motion.
Clinicians can also use manual therapy to target conditions involving soft tissue structures, such as muscles, tendons, nerves, and fascia. Some commonly used techniques include soft tissue massage, myofascial release, manually assisted stretching, and neural mobilization. These techniques can aid in the rehabilitation process by promoting blood flow, reducing areas of tension, and improving tissue pliability.
Manual therapy is a valuable tool for treating many injuries, and the practitioners at Continuum will work with each patient to determine the most appropriate techniques for their condition. When used in conjunction with a therapeutic exercise program and a graded return to activity, manual therapy can be an asset in the rehabilitation process and optimize functional recovery.
