This process is gentle and involves the gradual restoration of joint motion by relaxation of the surrounding tissue and muscle. The process is always within the voluntary control of the patient. This process is more forceful and involves moving the joint to its maximum point of limitation and then applying a sudden thrust against resistance2. The process is outside the voluntary control of the patient.
Manual therapy involves restoring a greater range of motion to the joints of the human body.
Manual therapy may be valuable for the short term treatment of joints that lack adequate mobility and range of motion3. Manual therapists should provide patients with educational information which will enable them to reduce their own pain and disability, using their own understanding and resources. They will attempt to have the patient become independent rather than dependent on therapy. Manual therapists may employ various methods of manipulation and mobilization and use techniques or aids such as the application of heat or cold modalities, exercise, hydrotherapy, radiant, mechanical, and electrical energy. These are rare and occur mostly in the extremities of the body such as the arm and the leg.