Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (629)348-3199

Commentary - Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine (2025) Volume 9, Issue 1

The Role of Manual Therapy in Treating Musculoskeletal Disorders

Waniel Bheisen *

Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Odense, Denmark

*Corresponding Author:
Waniel Bheisen
Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Odense, Denmark
E-mail: wanielbheisen@sdu.dk

Received: 02-Jan-2025, Manuscript No. AAJPTSM-25-162874; Editor assigned: 03-Jan-2025, PreQC No. AAJPTSM-25-162874 (PQ) Reviewed:17-Jan-2025, QC No. AAJPTSM-25-162874Revised:24-Jan-2025, Manuscript No. AAJPTSM-25-162874 (R); Published:28-Jan-2025, DOI: 10.35841/aajptsm-9.1.248

Citation: Bheisen W. The Role of Manual Therapy in Treating Musculoskeletal Disorders. J Phys Ther Sports Med. 2024; 9(1):248.

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine

Introduction

Manual therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that includes a variety of hands-on techniques aimed at improving the function and mobility of the musculoskeletal system. It typically involves skilled manipulation and mobilization of joints, soft tissues (such as muscles and ligaments), and fascia. Manual therapy is used to address conditions such as joint pain, muscle stiffness, soft tissue injuries, and postural imbalances [1].

The goal of manual therapy is to reduce pain, restore normal movement patterns, and improve physical function. It can be applied to both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, making it a versatile treatment option for a wide range of patients. Manual therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments such as exercise therapy, education, and modalities like heat or cold therapy [2].

Techniques in manual therapy

Manual therapy encompasses a variety of techniques, each with a specific purpose and application. Joint mobilization involves the passive movement of a joint through its range of motion. This technique is often used to improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. By applying graded oscillatory movements, therapists aim to restore normal joint function, alleviate pain, and improve mobility in conditions such as osteoarthritis or post-surgical recovery [3]. Manipulation refers to high-velocity, low-amplitude movements applied to a joint or spine. This technique is commonly used to address conditions like back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Manipulation aims to restore alignment, relieve muscle tension, and reduce discomfort. It is typically performed with great care to avoid excessive force or injury [4].

This technique involves the manual manipulation of muscles, tendons, and fascia to release tension and improve circulation. Techniques like myofascial release, deep tissue massage, and trigger point therapy are often used to target specific areas of muscle tightness or injury. Soft tissue mobilization can help with conditions such as muscle strains, tendinitis, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and organs. When fascia becomes restricted or tight, it can lead to pain and stiffness. Techniques such as fascia stretching or myofascial release aim to reduce these restrictions and improve flexibility, mobility, and pain relief [5]. METs are used to restore normal muscle length and function. This technique involves the patient actively contracting a muscle against resistance, followed by a stretch. METs can be particularly effective in treating muscle spasms and restoring range of motion [6].

Benefits of manual therapy

Manual therapy has been shown to provide several benefits for individuals with musculoskeletal disorders. Some of the primary benefits includes one of the most immediate effects of manual therapy is pain relief. Techniques such as joint manipulation and soft tissue mobilization can release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, helping to reduce discomfort and improve overall well-being. Joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques help to restore flexibility and movement in stiff joints and muscles. This is particularly beneficial for patients with conditions such as arthritis, muscle strains, or post-surgical stiffness. Manual therapy techniques can help improve blood flow to injured or inflamed tissues, which promotes healing and reduces swelling. This is particularly important in conditions such as soft tissue injuries, where tissue repair is essential for recovery. Manual therapy can address musculoskeletal imbalances that affect posture, such as muscle tightness or joint misalignments. By restoring proper alignment, patients may experience improved posture, reduced muscle strain, and decreased pain in areas such as the back and neck. Manual therapy can effectively target areas of muscle tension, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. This is especially beneficial for individuals with conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic pain, where muscle tightness is often a contributing factor to discomfort. By improving joint mobility and soft tissue flexibility, manual therapy can help patients regain functional movement patterns, allowing them to perform daily activities and return to exercise or sports [7].

Clinical applications of manual therapy

Manual therapy has been used successfully in the management of a variety of musculoskeletal disorders. Some common conditions treated with manual therapy includes manual therapy which is commonly used to treat acute and chronic low back pain. Techniques such as spinal manipulation and joint mobilization can help alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and restore normal function to the spine. For patients with neck pain or cervicogenic headaches, manual therapy techniques such as cervical mobilization and manipulation have been shown to reduce pain, improve movement, and decrease the frequency of headaches. Joint mobilization and soft tissue mobilization are effective in managing pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis, particularly in the hips, knees, and shoulders [8-10]. Manual therapy is often used in the treatment of sports-related injuries, such as muscle strains, ligament sprains, and tendinitis. Techniques like myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization are effective for promoting healing and restoring function. After surgery, manual therapy can be used to restore range of motion, reduce scar tissue formation, and improve muscle strength, aiding in a faster and more effective recovery.

Conclusion

Manual therapy plays a crucial role in the management of musculoskeletal disorders. It provides an effective, hands-on approach to treating pain, improving mobility, and promoting healing. By using a combination of joint mobilization, manipulation, soft tissue techniques, and stretching, manual therapy can address a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, enhancing patients' quality of life and restoring functional movement. When used in conjunction with other treatments, manual therapy has proven to be a powerful tool for rehabilitation and pain management in individuals with musculoskeletal disorders.

References

  1. Epstein LH, Wing RR. Aerobic exercise and weight. Addictive Behaviors. 1980;5(4):371-88.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. McCann IL, Holmes DS. Influence of aerobic exercise on depression. J Pers Soc Psychol. 1984;46(5):1142.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. DiLorenzo TM, Bargman EP, Stucky-Ropp R, et al. Long-term effects of aerobic exercise on psychological outcomes. Preventive medicine. 1999;28(1):75-85.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. LaFontaine TP, DiLorenzo TM, Frensch PA, et al. Aerobic exercise and mood: a brief review, 1985–1990. Sports Med. 1992;13:160-70.

    5. Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Whelton SP, Chin A, Xin X, et al. Effect of aerobic exercise on blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials. Ann Intern Med. 2002;136(7):493-503.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  6. Spurway NC. Aerobic exercise, anaerobic exercise and the lactate threshold. British Medical Bulletin. 1992;48(3):569-91.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  7. Martin JE, Dubbert PM, Cushman WC. Controlled trial of aerobic exercise in hypertension. Circulation. 1990;81(5):1560-7.

    8. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  8. Martinsen EW, Medhus A, Sandvik L. Effects of aerobic exercise on depression: a controlled study. Clinical research ed. 1985;291(6488):109.

    9. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  9. Hautala AJ, Kiviniemi AM, Tulppo MP. Individual responses to aerobic exercise: the role of the autonomic nervous system. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2009;33(2):107-15.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  10. Kramer MS, McDonald SW. Aerobic exercise for women during pregnancy. Cochrane database of systematic reviews. 2006.

    11. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App