Manual therapy is a form of orthopaedic physiotherapy practice, which utilizes a variety of ‘hands on’ modalities to restore normal function and mobility after disease or injury. Techniques often include joint manipulation, mobilization, soft tissue techniques, stretching, exercise prescription and education.
Some of the scientifically proven benefits of manual therapy are pain relief, improved joint mobility and stability, increased muscle strength and coordination as well as increased awareness of optimal posture and enhanced total body function.
Joint Manipulation is a ‘hands on’ treatment used by specifically trained physiotherapists involving a small, high speed, controlled movement to a specific restricted joint to improve function. In Canada, certification to administer manipulation techniques is based on completion of a lengthy post-graduate curriculum and successful challenging of combined written and oral/practical examinations which fulfill international competency and safety standards. Successful candidates are entitled to become members of the Canadian Association of Manipulative Therapy as Fellows of the organization and use the initials, FCAMT.
Exercise prescription by a manual therapist is based on a detailed assessment of physical dysfunction and tailored specifically to address identified problems.
Get Your FACTS on Manipulation – STRAIGHT! (English brochure)
