The purpose of manipulation is to restore joint mobility by manually applying a controlled force into joints that have become hypomobile – or restricted in their movement – as a result of a tissue injury. Tissue injury can be caused by a single traumatic event, such as improper lifting of a heavy object, or through repetitive stresses, such as sitting in an awkward position with poor spinal posture for an extended period of time. In either case, injured tissues undergo physical and chemical changes that can cause inflammation, pain, and diminished function for the sufferer. Manipulation, or adjustment of the affected joint and tissues, restores mobility, thereby alleviating pain and muscle tightness, and allowing tissues to heal.*
Myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization are safe manipulative treatments of fascia and muscles aimed to release localized tension. Localized tension can be caused by a number of postural faults, acute trauma, and inflammation. The therapeutic goals of these treatments include cessation of pain, decrease in localized spasm and restoring lost range of motion.
Postural analysis entails evaluating ones static and dynamic posture in order to identify any abnormalities or faults which can then later be incorporated in the design of the treatment plan.
Joint mobilization is a manual therapy which incorporates passive range of motion into a restricted or fixated joint. Joint mobilization is utilized to restore lost range of motion, decrease adhesions and scar tissue.**
Therapeutic exercise is movement prescribed to correct an impairment, improve musculoskeletal function, or maintain a state of well-being. Goals of therapeutic exercise include: improve ambulation, release contracted muscles, mobilize joints, improve circulation, improve respiratory capacity, improve coordination, reduce rigidity and stiffness, improve balance, improve muscle strength, improve performance and functional capacity.
Sources
* “What is Chiropractic?” American Chiropractic Association. n.p., n.d. Web. 14 October, 2015.
** Lieberman, J. “Therapeutic Exercise.” Medscape. n.p. 21 March 2014. Web. 14 October 2015.