Physiotherapy – manual therapy

Physiotherapy (manual therapy) is a detailed patient examination and treatment. The physiotherapist uses special holds and diagnostic and mobility techniques (compression, massage) directed at treating pain in muscles, ligaments, fascia, and joints, as well as teaching movement, breath and posture patterns. Often it is complementary to kinesiotherapy.

The goal of manual therapy is to relax the tissues and extend the range of motion, which improves locomotor functions and the patient's well-being. In addition, it is an incentive to start pain-free physical activity.

Manual therapy is recommended in acute and subacute spinal pain and post-traumatic or post-operative conditions in order to return to full fitness as before the injury or surgery.

• it reduces pain,
• it increases joint mobility and range of motion,
• it improves tissue flexibility and mobility,
• it reduces muscle tension.

In manual therapy, it is essential to diagnose the health problem. The physiotherapist uses differential diagnosis, which involves the gradual elimination of the causes of musculoskeletal dysfunction.

The therapy is carried out on a special height-adjustable table. During the procedure, the correct position of the patient is important.

Techniques used to work with a patient during manual therapy include transverse massage, functional massage, deep tissue massage, compression mobilizations, joint mobilizations, and manipulations. The selection of techniques is personalised and depends on the patient's dysfunction and tolerance.

The first appointment is primarily to assess the patient's health. The number and frequency of appointments are determined by the physiotherapist in consultation with the patient after the first appointment. They depend on the type of dysfunction and the nature of the ailment.