The Difference Between Manual Therapy and Adjustments

Health professionals often use Manual Therapy and Adjustments to treat musculoskeletal pain. These two practices, while similar, have notable characteristics that distinguish them.

What is Manual Therapy?

Manual Therapy is a physical treatment that therapists use to treat musculoskeletal pain and disability. This approach uses the hands to put pressure on affected muscle tissues and joints. It involves kneading and manipulating muscles, as well as joint mobilization.

What is an Adjustment?

An Adjustment, often performed by chiropractors, is a specific type of manual therapy. It involves the rapid application of controlled force to a joint. Chiropractors apply this force in a precise direction that the joint requires for proper movement and functioning.

The Core Differences Between Manual Therapy and Adjustments

Despite the similarities, Manual Therapy and Adjustments differ in various ways.

Approach

Adjustments focus primarily on joint manipulation while Manual Therapy can include a wider range of techniques. These techniques can involve specific movement patterns, soft tissue work, and other methods beyond joint manipulation.

Goal

The main goal of an Adjustment is to restore the function of the joint and reduce subluxation. This restores the range of motion of a joint and decreases pain. On the other hand, Manual Therapy targets the management of disability and pain by improving muscle flexibility and reducing soft tissue tension.

Who Performs the Treatment

In many cases, physical therapists perform Manual Therapy while chiropractors conduct Adjustments. However, both professionals often have overlapping scopes of practice and can perform either method depending on the situation and patient needs.

Rehabilitation Process

Rehabilitation through Manual Therapy can be more gradual, given the wide range of treatment techniques. A therapist might utilize different methods over several sessions. Adjustments, conversely, often result in immediate, noticeable change in the patient’s mobility, although multiple sessions are typically necessary for long-term results.

Despite the above differences, both methods aim at achieving similar outcomes: reducing pain and increasing functionality. Likewise, both procedures can treat several conditions ranging from back pain to musculoskeletal disorders. In certain instances, like by the application of concussion therapy in Jacksonville, FL, combinations of these techniques can be necessary.

Lastly, convenience, preference, and the specific physical condition of a patient will inform the choice of treatment between Manual Therapy and Adjustments. Therefore, establishing an open line of communication with your healthcare provider is critical in determining the most appropriate treatment plan.