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Manual Therapy
Physical Therapists perform manual therapy techniques, which consist of a broad group of skilled hand movements, including but not limited to thrust and non-thrust mobilization and manipulation.
They are used by the physical therapist to mobilize or manipulate soft tissues and joints for the purpose of modulating pain; increasing joint range of motion; reducing or eliminating soft tissue swelling, inflammation, or restriction; inducing relaxation; improving contractile and noncontractile tissue extensibility; and improving pulmonary function. These interventions involve a variety of techniques, such as the application of graded forces.
Exercise
Patients learn how to perform exercises that will improve muscle and joint flexibility, posture, strength and endurance.
The exercises will support and protect the injured or weakened area.
Modalities
Resources such as cold packs, hot packs, ultrasound with electrical stimulation, and mechanical traction are often used to control pain, reduce swelling and relieve muscle tension.
Self-Care
Each patient is given self-care instructions that include techniques for pain control, lifting and moving, correct sleep positions, and activity level recommendations, as well as avoidance of risky activities.
Home Exercise Program
You will also receive instruction in a home exercise program as well as education on proper body mechanics and posture to prevent re-injury.
Patients may be required to perform specific exercises on their own time so that the maximum benefits of the therapy session can be achieved.
Evaluation
A physical therapist evaluates your condition to identify the source of your discomfort or dysfunction.
The source of the pain will be diagnosed along with other factors such as tight, weak or injured muscles.
Once the patient has been evaluated, the therapist develops a treatment program to restore pain free motion and to strengthen the weakened area of the body.
The session will involve manual therapy, stretching, posture and strengthening exercise.
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