Blog post from our board member Dr. Robert Bacci: The Science Behind Manual Therapy: How It Speeds Up Healing – Courtesy of Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy
What is Manual Therapy?
Manual therapy is a set of techniques performed by a physical therapist using their hands. It involves applying pressure to soft tissues, moving joints in specific directions, and mobilizing muscles to improve function. Common techniques include:
- Soft Tissue Mobilization: Involves rubbing and kneading muscles to release tension and improve blood flow.
- Joint Mobilization: Gentle movement of joints to restore normal range of motion.
- Stretching: Helps lengthen tight muscles and improve flexibility.
Why is Manual Therapy Important?
When you get injured, your muscles and joints can become stiff and painful. This can slow down the healing process. Manual therapy helps break down scar tissue, reduce muscle spasms, and improve circulation, which speeds up recovery.
How Does Manual Therapy Work?
Manual therapy works by:
- Improving Blood Flow
When pressure is applied to tight muscles, it increases blood flow to the affected area. More blood flow means faster delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for healing. - Reducing Pain
Manual therapy can block pain signals from reaching the brain by stimulating nerve endings. This reduces discomfort, making it easier to move and perform daily activities without pain. - Breaking Down Scar Tissue
After an injury, your body forms scar tissue, which can cause stiffness. Manual therapy helps break down excess scar tissue, allowing muscles and joints to move more freely.
Benefits of Manual Therapy
The benefits of manual therapy go beyond just pain relief. Here’s how it helps:
- Increases Range of Motion: Mobilizing stiff joints and stretching tight muscles restore movement.
- Speeds Up Healing: Read more..