It can involve soft-tissue release or massage techniques, joint mobilizations and joint manipulations to name a few. We will often use manual therapy when there is a restriction of mobility in an area of the body.

One of the primary benefits of massage is its ability to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. This can allow for greater range of motion in the area being treated. It can have a profound effect on reducing stress levels, improving sleep quality, and enhancing overall mood. Additionally, massage can help improve circulation, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the muscles more efficiently, resulting in increased energy levels and improved physical performance. Another significant benefit of massage is its ability to alleviate pain and discomfort. By using techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release, the tight, painful tissue can often be desensitized. Massage can provide relief for chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines. The power of touch can have a profound effect on reducing anxiety, improving mood, and promoting a sense of relaxation and overall well-being.

Joint mobilizations are hands-on techniques that are able to direct movement between two or more bones that may have become stiff. Just as muscles can become stiff, our joint capsules can as well. Physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat for this. Studies have shown that specific joint mobilization techniques, such as Mulligan mobilizations, are effective at treating conditions such as lateral elbow epicondylitis, chronic neck pain, and even knee pain due to osteo-arthritis. They are often best used in combination with other modalities such as exercise. At Riverwood, we strive to provide all our patients with appropriate manual therapy treatment, as well as an exercise program so that they can continue to help themselves.

Joint manipulations are higher velocity, end range techniques that can sometimes illicit a cavitation or “pop” from the joint. At Riverwood, co-owner and physiotherapist Paul Conzatti has undergone further extensive training in this area and is a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy (FCAMPT). Members are proficient at performing manipulations, and are trained to identify who may benefit from these techniques and if it is safe to do so. Manipulations are indicated in several situations: if there is a fixated or “stuck” joint, when there is a treatment plateau with lower grade joint mobilizations, and if joint adhesions related to scar tissue are affecting mobility at the joint. Benefits from manipulations can include improved range of motion and even some neurophysiological changes such as diminished pain sensitivity, decreased muscle hypertonicity and a reduction of inflammatory mediators. Specific studies have shown that, under the correct circumstances, a lower back manipulation can help with chronic pain in this area. Other studies have found that even a manipulation at the mid back or thoracic spine can improve mechanical neck pain.

Manual therapy at Riverwood Physiotherapy enhances mobility, reduces pain, and promotes well-being. Learn more at Riverwood Physiotherapy, Massage Therapy, and Physiotherapy Services. For further details, visit this external resource.