Manual Therapy is a hands-on treatment technique used by physical therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and other healthcare providers to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It involves the use of the hands to manipulate, mobilize, and massage the body's muscles, joints, and soft tissues to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore function.

Joint Mobilization:

• Description: A gentle, controlled movement of a joint to improve its function and reduce pain.
• Purpose: Used to address joint stiffness, improve range of motion, and relieve pain.
• Method: The therapist applies varying levels of pressure or movement (slow and rhythmic) to the joint, which can be done in different directions (e.g., gliding, stretching).

Joint Manipulation:

• Description: A more forceful technique that involves a quick, controlled thrust to a joint.
• Purpose: Restores normal function to a joint with a restricted range of motion and can sometimes produce a "cracking" sound.
• Method: Often used on the spine or extremities to adjust misalignments and improve mobility.

Soft Tissue Mobilization:

• Description: Targets the muscles, fascia, ligaments, and tendons to release tension and improve tissue elasticity.
• Purpose: Helps to treat muscle stiffness, scar tissue, and chronic pain conditions.
• Method: Techniques like massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and deep tissue work are used to manipulate soft tissues.