Manual physical therapy (PT) is a collection of hands-on therapeutic techniques employed by a therapist to treat many symptoms and conditions.

This type of treatment, which is frequently used in conjunction with other rehab techniques such as exercise or pain-relieving modalities, can be beneficial in addressing a variety of issues such as pain, stiffness, or range of motion limitations.

1. Therapeutic Techniques

Manual therapy is classified as a "hands-on" treatment because each technique in this category involves the therapist physically touching you.

Among the numerous hands-on techniques included in this rehab category are:

Soft tissue massage

Stroking or gliding motions are performed over a muscular or connective tissue area to aid in tissue relaxation, mobility, or pain relief.

Joint manipulation

A quick, thrust-style technique that extends a joint's normal range of motion to improve mobility and (in some cases) pain relief.

Joint mobilization

Slower, repetitive oscillations within a joint's range of motion limits that promote mobility and expand a joint's range of motion

Friction massage

A more abrasive type of massage is intended to temporarily increase inflammation and break up scar tissue in order to promote healing and pain relief.

Passive stretching

Extending or lengthening a muscle or group of muscles to increase the range of motion and flexibility in a specific area

When used correctly, each of the techniques listed above can be beneficial. Many are frequently used in conjunction with one another.

Following a thorough evaluation, your physical therapist will be able to tell you more about which hands-on techniques may be beneficial to you.

2. When to Try Hands-On Physical Therapy

Manual therapy can be an excellent supplement to physical therapy for a variety of issues. For example, joint mobilization and passive stretching can help you regain the range of motion in the affected area after surgery or a procedure.

Following a more acute injury, such as a back or neck strain, certain types of manipulations and mobilizations may also be used. Furthermore, soft tissue massage can help with chronic pain management and increase participation in more active aspects of therapy.

Manual physical therapy has been shown to benefit a wide range of specific diagnoses. Several studies, for example, have shown that soft tissue massage improves pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Joint mobilizations and mid-back manipulations were also beneficial to people with shoulder pain. The same is true for people who have neck pain and have had upper cervical spine mobilizations and manipulations as part of their therapy.

3. Manual Therapy Costs

Manual therapy costs can be difficult to calculate. While most therapists can provide you with an upfront price guide for physical therapy if you pay out of pocket, the vast majority of patients choose to have their therapy costs covered by insurance.

Manual physical therapy is typically covered as part of your insurance's physical therapy benefits when both the therapist and the insurance deem it to be skilled and medically necessary. However, you are still responsible for any co-pay, co-insurance, or deductible costs that apply to most insurance plans.

4. Where to Go

During their education, every physical therapist receives education and training on how to perform manual physical therapy techniques. Suppose you are looking for a physical therapist who specializes in some of the above-mentioned hands-on skills. In that case, you should look for one who is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT).

Physical therapists in this organization have completed a two-year fellowship program after completing their normal education and have advanced skills in manual therapy.

5. At-Home Alternatives

There are no direct replacements for skilled manual therapy provided by a physical therapist. However, the cost of physical therapy in some cases makes receiving care unaffordable, and at-home alternatives must be considered.

Numerous devices available for purchase attempt to replicate some of the hands-on techniques used by therapists. Foam rollers, for example, can be used in conjunction with stretching exercises to improve muscle flexibility and range of motion.

Other pieces of equipment, such as massage guns and massage balls, are widely available, though their benefits are still being researched. Before using any at-home device, consult with your doctor to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation.