Manual Therapy

• Soft tissue mobilization - Soft tissue mobilization (STM) uses stretching and deep pressure to break up rigid muscle tissue, relax muscle tension, and move fluids trapped in the tissues that cause pain and inflammation. STM is used to treat soft tissue injuries including muscle strains and sprains. 

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• Passive Range of Motion - Movement applied to a joint by your therapist. When passive range of motion is applied, the joint of an individual receiving exercise is completely relaxed while the therapist moves the body part, such as a leg or arm, throughout the available range.

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• Muscle Energy Techniques - Muscle energy techniques are used to intentionally lengthen and shorten muscles in an effort to mobilize a restricted joint. Your physical therapist will work with you to contract the muscle in an isometric hold and then release the hold. This active process effectively engages the muscles making them stronger and longer, thus limiting a joint’s restriction.

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• Joint Manipulation - The therapist manually applies targeted pressures or forces on a joint in specific directions to help improve the mobility of that joint.  It can be performed at different levels of intensity and is guided by feedback from the patient on comfort.  It is usually pain-free.  When indicated, joint mobilization can be applied at a quick speed and short range to create a cavitation or “pop.”  This can be used to improve range of motion and/or decrease pain.

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