Manual therapy

Physiotherapists are accredited and highly trained in a variety of specialized hands-on techniques for treating pain and/or limited mobility and function. These specialized skills are suitable for treating joints, muscles, connective tissues, and nerves. The physiotherapist will select the appropriate technique(s) after making a detailed biomechanical analysis of the nerves, bones, muscles and other soft tissues involved.

Manual mobilization and manipulation

Two highly effective manual techniques that physiotherapists use to relieve pain and restore movement are manipulations and mobilizations. Manipulations are single, small, quick movements of a knee, elbow or other joint that provide quick relief and re-orient body parts. Mobilizations are gentle, rhythmic, repeated movements, sometimes small and sometimes large, that restore range of motion.

Soft tissue mobilization (Myofascial release)

This hands-on manual therapy technique restores movement, power, and range of motion to joints. Fascia are layers of fibrous tissue that organize muscle tissue into groups and cover joint capsules and ligaments. Following trauma or repetitive activities, fascia and muscles may shorten, restricting joint movement and blood flow. The therapist uses gentle, precise, passive movements to release tension stored in the fascia and to relax muscles.

Massage therapy

All massage therapy, at LVOSP is performed by our registered massage therapists (RMTs), who employ a variety of techniques and methods depending on the patient’s needs. Massage therapy relieves chronic deep-muscle pain, reduces recovery time, improves joint and muscle flexibility, and improves the flow of blood and the removal of metabolic byproducts. Massage treatments can be performed in isolation, or in many cases, in conjunction with physiotherapy at LVOSP.