Hands-on for mind, body spirit health

    Manual therapy comprises of a broad category of hands-on techniques used to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions. The history of manual therapy can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including China, Greece, and India, where massage, acupuncture and other forms of bodywork were used to treat various ailments.

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    In the 19th century, Swedish physician Per Henrik Ling developed a system of medical gymnastics, which included massage and other physical exercises, that is still used today in various forms. The development of Osteopathy Physiotherapy and Chiropractic in the late 1800s and early 1900s also contributed to the growth of manual therapy.

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    In the 1950s, a French Osteopath named Jean-Pierre Barral developed visceral manipulation, which focuses on treating the internal organs and their connective tissues.

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    In recent years, manual therapy has become increasingly popular as a non-invasive treatment option for a variety of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint pains. Techniques such as tui-na. massage, mobilization, manipulation, and stretching are commonly used by manual therapists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and other healthcare professionals.

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    Today, manual therapy continues to evolve and expand as new techniques and approaches are developed and studied. These modalities include:

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• Tui-Na: An ancient Chinese modality of manipulating the soft tissues and joints of the body to improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation.

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• Cupping therapy: Part of the TCM system, this modality is used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation. Commonly used for musculoskeletal pain and injuries, such as back pain and sprains, as well as respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis, and to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage.

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• Gua sha: A TCM modality is often used to treat muscle pain and tension, as well as respiratory and digestive conditions. It is also believed to have a detoxifying effect on the body.

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• Reflexology: Is a modality that involves applying pressure to specific areas of the feet, hands, ears and in other areas to stimulate corresponding areas of the body, divided into zones.

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• Shiatsu: A form of Japanese massage therapy involving pressure techniques on specific points on the body to balance Qi and promote healing. The practice of Shiatsu is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and is believed to work by balancing the flow of energy (or "qi") in the body.

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• Myofascial release: Myofascial release involves the application of gentle pressure to the connective tissues (fascia) to release tension and improve mobility.

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• Craniosacral therapy: This is a gentle form of manual therapy that focuses on the skull and spine to promote relaxation and reduce pain.

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• Osteopathy: A form of manual therapy that emphasizes the role of the musculoskeletal system in overall health and well-being. Uses techniques, including joint mobilization and soft tissue manipulation, to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.

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• Physical therapy: Uses a variety of techniques, including mobilization, manipulation, and stretching, to improve mobility and reduce pain in patients with musculoskeletal conditions.

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• Chiropractic: Chiropractic involves the manipulation of the spine and other joints to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.

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These are just a few examples of the forms of manual therapies. It is important to work with a qualified healthcare professional to determine which approach is best for your specific needs.​