Dynamic Physical Therapy
Manual Therapy in Cottonwood Heights & Salt Lake City, UT
Find Lasting Relief Through Manual Therapy in Cottonwood Heights & Salt Lake City, UT
If chronic pain, limited mobility, or tight muscles are interfering with your daily life, manual therapy could be the key to long-term relief. At Dynamic Physical Therapy, our expert physical therapists use hands-on techniques to relieve pain, restore movement, and improve function. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to enhance your mobility, our manual therapy techniques can help you feel and move better.
What Is Manual Therapy?
Manual therapy involves specialized hands-on techniques that target muscles, joints, and connective tissues to reduce pain and improve movement. Common manual therapy techniques include:
- Joint Mobilization: Gentle, controlled movements to improve joint flexibility and alignment
- Myofascial Release: Soft tissue techniques that relieve muscle tightness and restrictions
- Trigger Point Therapy: Direct pressure on muscle knots to alleviate pain and tension
- Muscle Energy Techniques: Active movements combined with therapist resistance to improve flexibility and function
These techniques help address the root causes of pain rather than just treating symptoms, leading to lasting relief and improved quality of life.
Pauline Thayne
Working with Ariel was fantastic. She really listened to me and motivated me when things were hard after my shoulder surgery. She helped me find new things to try depending on what I felt was needed. Everyone in the office are so nice. I had a great experience. Thank you all, especially Ariel.
Carol Minoughan
I was referred to Dynamic Physical Therapy after surgery on my hamstring. I’ve done PT before but Dynamics is a cut above. Their therapists are so hands on and professional. They design individualized programs that really help build strength and mobility. From the staff at the front desk to every single therapist that works there, they all provide such wonderful, friendly, and personalized support. They were a HUGE part of my journey to getting back to me! I would highly recommend them to anyone.
Conditions Treated with Manual Therapy
Manual therapy can be beneficial for a variety of conditions, including:
- Chronic back and neck pain
- Joint stiffness and arthritis
- Muscle strains and tension
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Headaches and TMJ dysfunction
- Sports injuries and repetitive strain injuries
If stiffness, pain, or mobility restrictions are affecting your daily activities, manual therapy may be an effective treatment option.
Benefits of Manual Therapy
1. Pain Relief and Improved Mobility
Hands-on techniques reduce tension, improve circulation, and restore movement, leading to reduced pain and greater mobility.
2. Enhanced Flexibility and Range of Motion
Manual therapy helps lengthen tight muscles and release adhesions, allowing for greater ease of movement.
3. Faster Recovery from Injury or Surgery
By improving circulation and reducing muscle tightness, manual therapy accelerates healing after injuries or surgical procedures.
4. Improved Posture and Body Awareness
Correcting muscular imbalances and joint restrictions helps improve posture, reducing strain and preventing future pain.
Manual Therapy vs. Traditional Physical Therapy
While traditional physical therapy often focuses on exercise and passive treatments like heat or ultrasound, manual therapy takes a more direct approach by using hands-on techniques to address restrictions in muscles and joints. By combining both approaches, patients often experience faster and more lasting relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is manual therapy different from massage therapy?
Manual therapy is more targeted than massage therapy, focusing on restoring joint and muscle function rather than just relaxation.
Does manual therapy hurt?
Patients may experience mild discomfort during treatment, especially if dealing with tight muscles or restricted joints. However, therapists adjust pressure to ensure comfort.
How long does it take to see results?
Some patients notice improvements after a single session, while others may require multiple treatments for lasting relief.
Manual Therapy Experts
At Dynamic Physical Therapy, our skilled therapists utilize advanced manual therapy techniques to address pain, improve mobility, and enhance function. Our hands-on approach is tailored to your specific needs and integrated with comprehensive treatment plans.
Matthew Nelson PT, DPT, TPS, AFDNS, AIB Cert – VR
Matt brings exceptional expertise in advanced manual therapy techniques, specializing in trigger point dry needling as an Advanced Functional Dry Needling Specialist. His comprehensive approach to spine care, whiplash rehabilitation, and complex pain management utilizes precise manual interventions to restore function and relieve discomfort. Matt’s extensive teaching experience in manual therapy techniques ensures you receive the highest standard of skilled hands-on care.
Jessica Bauerkemper PT, DPT, AIB CERT – VR
Jessica combines traditional manual therapy with her specialized training in Pilates principles to address both symptoms and their underlying causes. Her expertise in orthopedic care and post-operative rehabilitation incorporates gentle, effective manual techniques to improve tissue mobility and joint function. Jessica’s approach emphasizes restoring natural movement patterns through targeted hands-on interventions and patient education.
Anika Jansen, PT, DPT
Anika integrates specialized manual therapy techniques in her treatment of orthopedic, vestibular, and concussion conditions. Her hands-on approach addresses soft tissue restrictions and joint dysfunction while incorporating balance and proprioceptive training. Anika’s functional dry needling skills complement her manual therapy toolkit, allowing for comprehensive treatment of complex movement disorders.
Ciena Lavallee PT, DPT, Cert. MDT
Ciena’s McKenzie Method certification enhances her manual therapy approach with precise mechanical diagnosis and treatment strategies. Her hands-on techniques focus on restoring proper joint mechanics and tissue mobility, particularly for spine-related conditions. Ciena’s background in athletic training gives her unique insight into using manual therapy to optimize movement patterns and prevent recurrence of symptoms.
Restore Movement and Reduce Pain with Dynamic Physical Therapy
If pain and stiffness are affecting your quality of life, manual therapy at Dynamic Physical Therapy can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.