A person giving a massage on their back by a massage therapist.

Manual Therapy – The “Hands-On” Approach

Often referred to as the "healing hands" of physiotherapists, manual therapy encompasses a range of hands-on techniques aimed at restoring movement, alleviating pain, and promoting overall well-being.

At its core, manual therapy involves skilled manipulation of the soft tissues and joints by physiotherapists. These techniques are grounded in biomechanical principles and evidence-based practice, making them a cornerstone of modern physiotherapy interventions. 

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What We Do

  • Release tight muscles & ease tension

  • Restore joint mobility & flexibility

  • Relieve pain naturally

  • Support faster recovery after injury or surgery

Who It Helps

  • Everyday aches & pains

  • Sports injuries & performance goals

  • Recovery after surgery

  • Chronic conditions like back pain, arthritis, or neck pain

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  • Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment used by physiotherapists to relieve pain, restore movement, and improve function. It includes techniques such as:

    • Soft tissue release to reduce muscle tension and tightness

    • Joint mobilisation to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness

    • Gentle manipulations to restore normal joint alignment and movement

    Manual therapy is an evidence-based approach that helps your body heal naturally and move at its best.

  • Manual therapy can be highly effective for a wide range of conditions, including:

    • Back and neck pain

    • Shoulder and knee injuries

    • Sports injuries and muscle strains

    • Joint stiffness or reduced mobility

    • Post-surgery rehabilitation

    • Chronic pain conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia

  • While both use hands-on techniques, manual therapy is more targeted and clinical.

    • Massage focuses on relaxation and improving circulation.

    • Manual therapy focuses on restoring movement, reducing pain, and improving joint or muscle function as part of a physiotherapy plan.

  • Absolutely. Manual therapy often works best alongside:

    • Individualised exercise programs

    • Strength and stability training

    • Dry needling or other physiotherapy techniques

    This combined approach helps speed up recovery and prevent future injuries.

  • Most people experience:

    • Reduced pain and muscle tightness

    • Improved movement and flexibility

    • Faster recovery after injury or surgery

    • Better performance in sport and daily activities

Frequently Asked FAQs