Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment technique used by physical therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and other healthcare professionals to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It involves the skilled use of the therapist's hands to manipulate, mobilize, or apply pressure to the body's soft tissues, joints, and muscles to improve movement, reduce pain, and enhance function.

There are several types of manual therapy techniques, including:

1. Joint Mobilization: A technique in which the therapist moves a joint in a controlled manner to improve its range of motion and reduce stiffness. The movement is typically slow and rhythmic and may involve passive movement or stretching of the joint.

2. Joint Manipulation (Chiropractic Adjustments): A more forceful technique used to restore proper movement or alignment in a joint. It often involves a quick, controlled thrust to improve function and reduce pain. It is commonly associated with chiropractic care.

3. Soft Tissue Mobilization: This technique targets muscles, fascia, tendons, and ligaments to release tightness, improve blood flow, and decrease muscle tension. It may involve techniques like deep tissue massage, myofascial release, or trigger point therapy.

4. Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Involves the patient using their own muscle strength to move a joint or muscle into a new position while the therapist provides resistance. This helps to increase flexibility and joint mobility.

5. Strain-Counterstrain: A technique used to reduce muscle spasms and pain. The therapist applies a gentle pressure to a tender spot (trigger point) and then moves the body part into a position that reduces strain on the muscle.

6. Craniosacral Therapy: A gentle, non-invasive technique focusing on the movement of the craniosacral system (the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord). It aims to relieve tension and improve the functioning of the central nervous system.

7. Soft Tissue Release (STR): Involves applying pressure to tight muscles and moving them through their range of motion to release restrictions.

Goals of Manual Therapy:

• Pain reduction: Manual techniques can help reduce pain through improved circulation, reduced muscle tension, and improved joint mechanics.
• Improved mobility: It enhances joint and tissue mobility, improving overall range of motion and flexibility.
• Reduced muscle tightness: It can help to relieve muscle spasms or tightness that might contribute to pain or limited movement.
• Promote healing: By improving blood flow and tissue function, manual therapy can help accelerate the body’s natural healing processes.

Manual therapy is often used as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program, which may also include exercises, education, and lifestyle changes to address underlying causes of musculoskeletal problems.