Manual therapy is a set of hands-on techniques used by licensed physical therapists and chiropractors to reduce pain, restore motion, and improve function. At PT & Chiro Miami, manual therapy is integrated with physical therapy and chiropractic care to create a personalized plan that supports both short-term relief and long-term results.
Why Clinicians Use Manual Therapy
- Reduce pain and guarding
- Improve joint glide and tissue extensibility
- Normalize movement patterns
- Prepare yourself for exercise and functional training
Core Manual Therapy Techniques
1. Joint Mobilization
Graded oscillatory or sustained glides are applied to stiff joints to improve arthrokinematics and reduce pain. Often used for neck, shoulder, hip, ankle, and spinal segments.
2. Manipulation
High velocity, low amplitude thrust applied to a specific joint to restore motion and modulate pain. Indicated after screening for safety and suitability.
3. Soft Tissue Mobilization
Targeted pressure and shear to muscles, tendons, and fascia to reduce tone, improve circulation, and resolve adhesions.
4. Myofascial Release
Sustained, low-load techniques to lengthen restricted fascia and improve regional movement.
5. Trigger Point Therapy
Direct pressure to hyperirritable muscle spots that refer pain. Pressure is gradually increased, then released as the trigger point softens.
6. Muscle Energy Techniques
The patient performs gentle isometric contractions against the therapist's resistance to reset muscle tone and improve joint alignment.
7. PNF Stretching
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation uses contract-relax and hold-relax patterns to safely increase flexibility and neuromuscular control.
8. Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Specialized tools provide focal shear to the soft tissue to address fibrosis and promote remodeling. Commonly used for tendinopathies.
9. Neural Mobilization
Careful gliding or tensioning of peripheral nerves to improve mechanosensitivity and reduce symptoms like tingling or radiating pain.
10. Lymphatic Drainage Techniques
Gentle rhythmic strokes that support fluid movement and reduce swelling after injury or surgery.
How Therapists Choose the Right Technique
Selection depends on your diagnosis, irritability of symptoms, stage of healing, and goals. For example, acute low back pain may call for gentle joint mobilization and soft tissue work. Chronic shoulder stiffness may benefit from joint mobilization, myofascial release, and PNF stretching followed by rotator cuff and scapular strengthening.
Manual Therapy Works Best With Active Rehab
Hands-on care prepares tissues to move. Exercise locks in the gains. Your plan will include mobility drills, motor control training, and progressive strength work tailored to your activities. Explore our physical therapy programs to see how we combine manual therapy with targeted exercise.
What to Expect at PT & Chiro Miami
- Comprehensive evaluation of joints, soft tissue, posture, and movement
- Clear explanation of findings and plan
- Dosage that fits your tolerance and schedule
- Home program to maintain progress between visits
Ready to Move Better
If you have stiffness, pain, or limited motion, manual therapy may help you return to the activities you love. Contact PT & Chiro Miami to schedule your evaluation and learn which techniques fit your goals.
Dr. Joseph Hudson
Contact Me
