Manipulative therapy
Orthopractic manual therapy is the movement of joints in the human body. This is practiced by medical professional groups including chiropractors, physical therapists, osteopaths, sports therapists and other health care providers. Orthopractic manual therapy involves restoring mobility and normal end feel to stiff joints. The two main types of orthopractic manual therapy are mobilization and manipulation.
Mobilization is the gentle, rhythmic, repetitive passive movement of graded amplitude aimed at restoring mobility and function and reducing pain in a joint and surrounding tissue.
Manipulation therapy is a skilled, passive, quick movement aimed at restoring mobility and function and reducing pain in a stiff joint and associated tissue.
Patient self care means providing patients with educational information which will enable them to reduce their own pain and disability, using their own resources and understanding. The patient should not become dependent on long-term repeated courses of manual therapy.
Orthopractic manual therapy is valuable for the treatment of joints that lack adequate mobility and range of motion in certain musculo-skeletal conditions. This limitation can cause discomfort, pain, and an alteration in function, posture, and locomotion. Orthopractic practitioners may employ various methods of mobilization and manipulation therapy. They may also use aids such as heat or cold, water packs, exercise rehabilitation and electrotherapy, all in conjunction with patient education.