Manual therapy in physiotherapy

In manual therapy, just as the name suggests, the therapist works with his hands. Several techniques can be used: soft tissue techniques, mobilizations and manipulations. The common goal of these techniques is to restore movement, regain function and reduce pain. Soft tissue techniques are similar to massage and are used to relax tense muscles and improve circulation. Joint mobilizations vary between a gentle movement and small amplitudes applied to the joints (knee, shoulder, vertebra) and a short rapid movement called manipulation.

Manual therapy is taught at the university during the bachelor's and master's degrees in physiotherapy, but is the basis for the beginner physiotherapist to be able to practice orthopaedics after graduation. To perfect, deepen and learn other techniques, the physiotherapist will have to take post-graduate courses in manual therapy. These courses are taught by the orthopaedic division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association through the span of several years. The ultimate goal of these courses is to obtain advanced diploma in manual orthopedic therapy, FCAMPT.

To help you better understand the different titles on your physiotherapist's professional card, here is a brief overview of the path to achieving the advanced diploma, also known as Manual Therapy Party B.

Lower quadrant: parts of the body stretching from the thoraco region-lumbar to the feet

Upper Quadrant: parts of the body extending from the middle chest area to the hands, including the head and neck.