Physiotherapy treatments involve many techniques which affect the musculo-skeletal system. Most involve mobilisation of soft tissues and joints, restoration of muscle function and correction of muscle imbalances as well as recognising underlying pathological, physiological and pscyhcological influences which may be a factor in their condition.
When joints are being mobilised to the end of their range of movement a manipulation may occur. Occasionally during regular physiotherapy assessment and treatments minor joint manipulations may occur as joints are brought to the end of their range of movement. In other cases Chartered Physiotherapists will perform a grade 5 mobilisation which is a joint manipulation. Chartered physiotherapists do post graduate training to specialise further in Peripheral and Spinal Manipulation.
So yes, Physiotherapists do perform joint manipulations, but when we do manipulate a joint we will also give exercises to prevent the misalignment occurring again. We believe there is no point just treating the pain if we do not treat the the cause of the problem also.
There is often a big emphasis by certain professions on re-aligning joints which are “OUT”.
This terminology can often be off-putting and detrimental to patients as it infers that there is a serious malalignment of the skeletal system.
Physiotherapists tend not to use this type of jargon, as it fuels patient’s fear of movement and doing harm to themselves if they think that there skeleton, spine, pelvis or whatever is “OUT OF LINE”.
It is more important to have a patient moving well and strengthening muscles to preserve their musculo-skeletal system rather than to be returning to practitioners who “manipulate” or perform adjustments on a regular basis.
We have our own internal strength and flexibility and we should nurture this and become strong rather than depend on regular manipulation of the spine or pelvis to keep us well. Doing a course of pilates is much more beneficial than going for repeat “adjustments” from practitioners.
