Similar but Different
Both Manual Therapy and Chiropractic Therapy fall under the umbrella of Physical Therapy, but have different approaches to treatment applications. Both chiropractic and manual therapy require a university degree, and a rigorous certification process to practice their specialties.
Manual Therapy
Manual Therapists specialize in the treatment of neurophysiologic mechanisms of the body. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) defines manual therapy techniques as “skilled hand movements and skilled passive movements of joints and soft tissue.” They are the experts in the body’s movement employing the practitioner’s hands rather than machines. Techniques are used to improve range of motion and tissue extensibility, mobilize soft tissue and joints, control pain, reduce soft tissue swelling, inflammation, and induce relaxation. Manual Therapy care is focused on restoring normal, pain-free movement for individuals.
Chiropractic Therapy
Chiropractors specialize in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. They are the experts when it comes to the health of your spine and nervous system. They perform adjustments primarily to restore spinal alignment, to decrease pain, and improve functionality in the body. Chiropractic care is based on the idea that when your body is in proper alignment, you have a better chance of healing yourself.
Manipulation and Mobilization
Manual Therapy
Adjustments to your body are called “mobilizations”. These are accomplished by applying specific skilled hand movements to joints and soft tissues. The end-goal is to improve your range of motion, stability, and strength.
Chiropractic Therapy
Adjustments to your body are called “manipulations”. These are accomplished by applying a controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint. The end-goal is to realign your spine to keep your body in balance.
Which Therapy Works Best?
One practice is not “better” than the other, but there are specific situations where a treatment would better serve your situation.
Manual Therapy
People who have these medical conditions should seek manual therapy.
Chiropractic Therapy
People who have these medical conditions are better served with chiropractic therapy.
Maverick Manual Therapy & Performance
Dr. Clayton Labus knows first-hand the benefits of Manual Therapy after an injury. There are times when the body needs skilled and deliberate attention to the soft tissues and joints to heal properly, strengthen, and relearn movement patterns. If you are unsure about which treatment is best for you, give us a call and we’ll help you assess the best therapy for your situation.
Author Maverick Manual Therapy
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