Manual therapy is the restoration of reversible disorders in skeletal muscles, joints, skin, subcutaneous tissue, fascia and nervous system. The cause of functional changes are primarily disorders of normal posture and movement. This occurs under the influence of improper posture during daily life, repetitive faulty motor actions, and bad form of breathing as well as injuries, surgeries, increased mental tension and constant stressful situation. Stress is often the first step in the chain of functional changes. Living in constant tension, fatigue, anxiety, causes a defensive posture. This leads to a constant static tension of certain muscle groups which in turn impairs the mobility of the joints that regulates the muscles. Disorder of movable joints, especially if these are joints of the spine, may then lead to pathological symptoms in all structures innervated from a blocked segment of the spine. In the area innervated from a locked segment, it leads to changes in texture and elasticity of the skin and also leads to formation of hyperalgesic zones and overly sensitive points. The study of soft tissue, known as layered study, is based on a very thorough assessment through palpation. The main task of the diagnostic studies is to find the first link in the chain of functional changes. Only when the source of disturbance is eliminated, it will lead to a cure.
- The therapist, depending on the needs of the patient, uses various methods of manual therapy: Mulligan, Rakowski, a’Levite and McTimoney's chiropractic method.
- It is not aimed at producing cracks at the joints and often the desired effect is achieved using very delicate force.
- It is important for the patient to cooperate with the therapist because it will reduce the time of treatment. The patient himself will subconsciously know that the exercise is good for him and how it will bring him the desired results.
- If the patient with the help of a therapist knows the cause of his ailment, this information may in the future help prevent its recurrence.