Manual Therapy: An evidence-based treatment to
relieve pain and improve function
By Dr. John Mishock, PT, DPT, DC
Manual therapy is one of the most widely used therapeutic solutions by physical therapists and chiropractors to treat pain and musculoskeletal disorders. Manual therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy or chiropractic delivered by the clinicians’ hands to muscles or joints to decrease pain and improve body function. Mishock Physical Therapy & Associates uses a wide variety of manual therapy techniques (myofascial release, joint mobilization/manipulations, Active Release Techniques, trigger point therapy, acupressure, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, cupping, Maitland, Mulligan, Cox Flexion Distraction, chiropractic, and others) to help relieve pain, enhance soft tissue healing and improve patient function. Manual therapy has a rich history, dating back to Hippocrates in 400 BC, who used manual therapy to treat spinal scoliosis and pain. Over the centuries, there have been significant advancements in specific techniques and the scientific efficacy supporting manual therapies.
How does Manual therapy work to relieve my pain?
Manual therapy helps patients via two mechanisms: biomechanical and neurophysiological effects. Biomechanical factors would be increased joint range of motion, decreased muscle stiffness, reduced muscle spasm, and reduced joint pressure. Neurophysiological effects include changes in the local nerves (inflammatory and pain mediator substances), spinal nerves, and the brain. Manual therapy can change the brain’s message to the muscles and nerves, inhibiting pain and normalizing and preparing dysfunctional tissue for optimal healing (reduced spinal excitability, decreased cortical excitability, changes in resting state, reduced pain processing. (Eur Appl Physiol 2017) (Journal of Jah Univ of Med Sci., 2012) (Journal of Strength and Conditioning, 2014)
Is there evidence to support the use of manual therapy?
The extensive body of literature supporting the effectiveness of manual therapy in improving pain and dysfunction in patients with musculoskeletal disorders is a testament to its value. Most governing bodies recommend manual therapy as a first-line treatment for spinal and other musculoskeletal pains, further reinforcing its efficacy.
Is manual therapy more effective when combined with other physical therapy techniques?
When manual therapy is combined with patient education, therapeutic exercise, and physical therapy modalities (iontophoresis, laser, ultrasound, mechanical traction, electric stimulation, and others…), the patient is given the best chance for optimal recovery. When manual therapy is performed before exercise (strength, endurance, power, motor control, balance, and flexibility training), the muscles and joints are in an optimal physiological state for training and recovery.
We can help!
If pain or limited function limits you from doing the activities you enjoy, call Mishock Physical Therapy for a Free Phone Consultation (610)327-2600. Email your questions to mishockpt@comcast.net. Visit our website to learn more about our treatment philosophy, our physical therapy staff, and our 5 convenient locations in Gilbertsville, Skippack, Phoenixville, Boyertown, Limerick at www.mishockpt.com.
Schedule your visit by calling 610-327-2600 or visiting this link: https://mishockpt.com/request-appointment/
Gilbertsville – Skippack – Phoenixville – Boyertown – Limerick
Visit our website to read informative articles, meet our physical therapy staff, and learn about our treatment philosophy. Email your questions to mishockpt@comcast.net
Dr. Mishock is one of only a few clinicians with doctorate-level degrees in both physical therapy and chiropractic in the state of Pennsylvania. He has authored two books; “Fundamental Training Principles: Essential Knowledge for Building the Elite Athlete”, and “The Rubber Arm; Using Science to Increase Pitch Control, Improve Velocity, and Prevent Elbow and Shoulder Injury” both can be bought on Amazon and train2playsports.com.
