What are the benefits of manual therapy? Manual therapy: indications and contraindications, techniques, reviews. Features of spinal manual therapy

Bardukova Elena Anatolievna
neurologist, homeopath, work experience 23 years
✔ Article checked by a doctor

Famous Japanese rheumatologist:“IT'S MONSTERAL! Russian methods of treating joints and spine cause only bewilderment. See what doctors offer to treat your back and joints in Russia: Voltaren, Fastum gel, Diclofenac, Milgamma, Dexalgin and other similar drugs. However, these drugs DO NOT TREAT JOINTS and BACK, they only relieve the symptoms of the disease - pain, inflammation, swelling. Now imagine that...” Read the full interview"

Spinal manual therapy is a special massage method during which the doctor provides treatment for the disease. During the procedure, the chiropractor applies pressure to the joints and works on them thoroughly. The patient may feel severe pain during the session, but after it ends there is noticeable relief.

The effect ensures the elimination of discomfort in osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernia and other pathologies of the spine.


Manual therapy can only help if there are no complications and the procedure is carried out correctly

The patient must remember that there are contraindications to the manipulation; the price of the session varies significantly depending on the authority of the specialist.

What is it and how is it different from massage?

AN INCREDIBLE STORY THAT WILL SHOCK MANY:“My name is Olga, I’m 38 years old. My lower back hurt very badly. I came to the hospital and they did an MRI and said: “You have hernia and osteochondrosis 4 degrees. Get ready for operations" I almost fainted there! Horrible! What surgery, I'm only 38? It turns out that even at this age you can develop grade 4 osteochondrosis. But it all started with ordinary lower back pain, which then became chronic, aching, then a hernia formed lumbar region! She made it difficult to sleep and walk. I refused the operation because I was afraid of the anesthesia: I might fall asleep and never wake up again. I also have heart problems. As a result, they prescribed me a bunch of useless medications, and when I returned, the doctors simply shrugged, saying, what do you want, you have to do an operation... A couple of months ago, on the Internet, I came across an article that literally saved me. I regained my health and the pain went away! I am so grateful to fate, to the incident that brought me to this article! Finally my spine is healthy, all thanks to this article! Anyone who has PAIN IN THE BACK AND JOINTS - read NECESSARILY ! Now there is NO PAIN, I sleep normally, walk and work in the country.” Read more"

Manual therapy is a capacious concept that implies the treatment of various diseases of the spine due to the effects provided. In its principle, the treatment method is no different from classical massage, but during the intervention a deeper treatment of the vertebrae is provided. The final effectiveness depends on the professionalism of the doctor; he must select an individual approach to each patient depending on several factors.

The chiropractor must take into account not only the nature of the disease, but also the age of the patient. This is due to the fact that over the years, individual structural elements of the motor system change the quality of their work.

Harm or benefit

Stories from site readers:“My name is Ekaterina, I’m 42 years old. Several years ago I had a severe flu, after which I ended up in the hospital with complications. One of the complications was the inflammatory process in the lower back and joints. X-ray showed initial signs of lumbar osteochondrosis and hernia. And at that time I was 39 years old. When walking and climbing stairs, there was aching pain in the lower back and leg. I tried a lot: Voltaren, Milgamma, Meloxicam... Some helped more, some less. But only this new remedy took away the terrible pain. The last x-ray showed nothing. I just want to wave this photo in front of the doctors, who said that it could get worse, but it won’t get better. I keep the product on hand and recommend it to everyone. It saved me, that’s for sure.” Read more"

Manual therapy or manual treatment is certainly useful, but only if the effect is provided by a competent specialist. The positive effect on the spinal column during manipulation has been proven and confirmed scientifically. Intensive therapy provides immediate relief from chronic pain.

Manual therapy techniques

DOCTOR'S OPINION! “I have been working as an orthopedist for many years. During this time I had to deal with various diseases of the back and joints. He recommended only the best drugs to his patients, but still the result of one of them surpassed himself. It is absolutely safe, easy to use, and most importantly, it acts on the cause. As a result of regular use of the product, the pain goes away in a few minutes, and within 7 days the disease disappears altogether. An excellent tool for quick and stable results...” Sergey Mikhailovich Bubnovsky, orthopedic doctor. Find out more"

It is possible to achieve high results in the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system only through complex effects. This condition is possible with the combined use of mobilization, relaxation and other additional techniques. The specialist directs his main efforts to normalizing the biomechanics of the spinal column, considering it as a single organ. The impact is on certain points, the vertebra is stretched and its position is stabilized.

Postisometric relaxation (PIR)

PIR or post-isometric relaxation is a technique based on a soft manual treatment technique. The main goal is to restore mobility of the joints and spine, normalize the elasticity of ligaments and muscles. During the exposure, a dosed stretch of the ligaments and muscles is ensured after they have been strained.


How is post-isometric relaxation performed?

Positional mobilization

Considered as the main mobilization technique. This technique combines rhythmic mobilization and relaxation techniques. The procedure is slow, the doctor’s movements are leisurely. The essence of the technique is to ensure tension in the joint in the direction of the source of restriction.

The impact passes to the functional barrier, the patient maintains the force for several minutes. Tension in the segment is accompanied by stretching of the muscles located in the joint area.


What is positional mobilization

Rhythmic mobilization

Rhythmic, rotational movements are necessary to ensure mobilization of the spinal joints in the universal position. The same method is used for damage to large joints.

Technical support occurs due to the rotation of one department, directed in the other direction. During movement, it is necessary to maintain emphasis, even while releasing the tensile force.


Rhythmic mobilization technique

Push mobilization

The push mobilization technique is often used as a diagnostic technique. In therapy, it is used for rhythmic compression of the sacroiliac joint. The method has found wide application in the mobilization of small joints of the hands and feet.

Stretch mobilization

From the name of the method you can understand that the technology consists of stretching the articular surfaces. The method is used in the mobilization of large joints of the spinal column or its segments. The main requirement is to maintain elastic support even during force release, which should be non-radical.


Application of stretch mobilization

Features of the procedure

Stories from site readers:“My wife has long suffered from acute pain in her joints and back. Over the past 2 years, pain has always been present. Previously, I could not imagine that a person could scream like that in pain. It was terrible, especially in the middle of the night, when blood-curdling screams were heard in complete silence. According to her, it was like dogs chewing her legs and back. And there was nothing to help her, I just held her hand and reassured her. She injected herself with painkillers and fell asleep, and after a while everything happened again... In the morning, when she woke up, she cried more often. The smile completely disappeared from my face, the sun left our house forever. She also had difficulty moving - her knee joints and sacrum made it possible to even turn around. The first night after using this new remedy was the first time without screaming. And in the morning a cheerful woman came up to me and said with a smile: “But there’s no pain!” And for the first time in these 2 years I saw my beloved wife happy and smiling. She flutters around the house like a swallow, the rays of life play in her eyes.” Read more"

According to many specialists in the field of vertebrology and orthopedics, manual therapy is effective method, providing treatment for diseases of the musculoskeletal system and having a limited list of contraindications. There are no age limits; children can also be patients of a chiropractor. The method is effective for scoliosis and other childhood and adolescent posture disorders.

The only condition that ensures the safety of the manipulation is the correct choice of doctor. A competent therapist will always pay attention to the peculiarities of the course of the disease.


Even children can be treated with manual therapy

For osteochondrosis

For osteochondrosis of the spine, it is necessary to use not only the method of manual therapy. The patient should pay attention to the value of the classic, medicinal course. Sometimes the doctor himself recommends homeopathy to his patients.

When considering the technique of manual treatment, it is necessary to clarify that in order to achieve a therapeutic effect, you need to take a break between sessions for 2 days. The duration of exposure is 30 minutes. The most commonly used method is post-isometric relaxation. The method is quite simple, you can master the method yourself.

Attention! Your doctor will tell you how often you can do sessions. IN in some cases for osteochondrosis, a break between treatments of at least 5 days is required.

Video: manual therapy session

For injuries

It should be taken into account that manual therapy sessions after serious injuries are possible only after additional consultation with an orthopedist. In the case of a spinal fracture, treatment can begin no earlier than a month after the fragments have healed.


Manual therapy treatment after injuries is allowed only after permission from an orthopedist

On initial stage recovery methods of push mobilization are used. The procedure is carried out no more than 2 times a week. In the case of limited mobility, the result will be noticeable no earlier than after 5-7 sessions. Restoring the entire spine takes about 6 months, if there is damage to the thoracic region, without covering the lumbar spine - no more than 3 months.

For diseases of the spine

Depending on the nature of the spinal pathology, the treatment regimen differs:


For intervertebral hernia

Using special body movements, the doctor influences the patient’s nervous system, thereby achieving an analgesic effect. The procedure is carried out over a month with an interval of three days; the most beneficial method of exposure is determined by diagnosis. The intervertebral disc is reduced during the impact, and the pinching is eliminated.

For curvature of the spine

Manual treatment for scoliosis and other types of curvature can be provided in compliance with the following rules:

  • gradualism - at the initial stage of therapy, the duration does not exceed 10 minutes with a gradual increase to 30 minutes;
  • smoothness – exclusion of rough touches and actions;
  • complexity - necessarily combined with drug therapy and other treatment methods.


Manual therapy for spinal curvature should be combined with exercises and drug treatment

To achieve the best result, the patient needs to perform spinal exercises daily under the supervision of a doctor. Having learned how to warm up, you can refuse group training and continue training at home.

How to do it right at home

Stories from site readers: How I helped my mother heal her joints. My mother is 79; she has worked as a literature teacher all her life. When she first started having problems with her back and joints, she simply hid them from me so that I would not spend money on medicine. Mom tried to be treated only with decoctions of sunflower root, which, of course, did not help. And when the pain became unbearable, she borrowed money from a neighbor and bought painkillers at the pharmacy. When my neighbor told me about this, at first I was a little angry with my mother - I asked to leave work and immediately came to her by taxi. The next day, I made an appointment for my mother to see a rheumatologist at a paid clinic, despite her requests not to spend money. The doctor diagnosed him with arthritis and osteochondrosis. He prescribed treatment, but my mother immediately protested that it was too expensive. Then the doctor came to his senses and suggested an alternative option - home exercise and a herbal-based drug. This was cheaper than injections with chondroprotectors and did not even cause possible side effects. She started using the drug and doing physical therapy. When I visited her a couple of days later, I found her in the garden. She was tying up tomatoes, and apparently had already done a lot. She greeted me with a smile. I understood: the drug and physical exercise helped, the pain and swelling went away.” Read more"

Before learning how to massage yourself at home, the patient must understand that such tactics of influence will not provide a complete replacement for professional correction. Training from videos and special brochures is impossible; you need to get acquainted with the tactics with your own eyes.

Attention! The only thing that the patient can master is easy self-help techniques, which consist of a targeted effect on the lesions that provide pain relief.

For example, one of the effective non-drug methods is massage with vacuum cans. You can either simply put them on your back or give them a relaxing therapeutic massage. According to many patients, after 1-2 procedures severe pain, tightness and spasms go away.

Video: HOW TO REMOVE BACK PAIN IN 3 MINUTES AT HOME BY REGULATING YOUR VERTEBRES!

Consequences and complications

Stories from site readers:“I love working at my favorite dacha. Sometimes you work so hard that it’s impossible to straighten your back and pain appears in the lower back - no matter how much you cry. I don’t take painkillers because I have a bad stomach. A doctor I know advised me to pay attention to the newest product, which is specially produced only for the domestic foreign market. I ordered and applied it before bed. I felt a slight burning sensation, but then a warmth spread throughout my lower back. 2 days after using it, the wild pain in my back almost disappeared, and after another 2 weeks I forgot the feeling that your back was aching wildly. 4 (!) months have passed, and the result lasts, which means the product really works.” Read the article»

Failure to comply with the technology of the procedure may result in serious complications:

  • excessive stretching of the spine or its hypermobility;
  • fractures of ribs, vertebrae and bones are possible if the doctor does not control his strength, which is unacceptable;
  • no improvement in the patient’s well-being – the recovery process normally begins after 1-2 procedures.

If the doctor is illiterate, the consequences can be very serious.

Price

The cost of one procedure varies significantly depending on the region and the authority of the clinic. In general, one session lasting about 15-30 minutes costs approximately 2,000 rubles. The exact price of the course can be determined after a private examination and determination of the nature of the course of the disease.

Is it dangerous? Reviews from doctors and patients

Reviews from patients and specialists confirm the effectiveness of manual therapy as a method for treating diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Larin Vasily, 36 years old, orthopedist

I cannot criticize manual therapy as a method of treatment, but I want to warn patients against charlatans posing as masters. Such doctors do not know for whom the technique is contraindicated and often worsen the patient’s prognosis with their own hands. If the doctor is truly a professional, you will be able to benefit from the sessions.

Dima, 26 years old, patient

Two years ago I encountered a serious spinal injury, got it out of stupidity, and had a fracture. Treatment in the hospital lasted about 4 months, my mobility did not return, but I was discharged home. I was browsing the Internet and came across the address of a chiropractic clinic and called them. The girl signed me up for an examination, after which I needed a consultation with a specialist.

After viewing the pictures, the doctor said that a minimum of 20 sessions at long intervals would be required. The procedures are painful, but after them it becomes easier, I feel how my mobility is restored.

Olga, 43 years old, patient

I encountered spinal diseases after giving birth and did not receive treatment for a long time. And then the pain became unbearable. I went to the doctor and he diagnosed radiculitis. Nothing helps, therapy does not produce results, manual treatment is my only hope.

Video: the whole truth about manual therapy. Shock! Watch until the end!

Manual therapy of the spine is a treatment method that provides pain relief for various diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The impact will help eliminate pain from intervertebral hernia and osteochondrosis. During the session, the therapist massages and has a direct effect on the joints, at which point the patient feels severe discomfort, after which relief comes.

The procedure has contraindications, which the patient must be familiar with. The price of one session depends on the authority of the doctor and the nature of the patient’s disease. One intervention is not enough; a complex of procedures is required for recovery.

Conclusions and Conclusions

What are our Russian doctors keeping silent about? Why in 90% of cases does drug treatment give only a temporary effect?

Unfortunately, most of the remedies “treating” back and joint diseases that are advertised on TV and sold in pharmacies are completely divorce.

At first it may seem that creams and ointments help, BUT in fact they only TEMPORARILY relieve the symptoms of the disease.

In simple words, you buy a regular painkiller, and the disease continues to develop into more severe stage. Ordinary pain can be a symptom of more serious diseases:

  • degeneration of muscle tissue in the buttocks, thighs and lower legs;
  • pinched sciatic nerve;
  • development of arthritis, arthrosis and related diseases;
  • acute and sharp pain - lumbago, which leads to chronic radiculitis;
  • cauda equina syndrome, which leads to paralysis of the legs;
  • impotence and infertility.

How to be?- you ask. We have studied a huge amount of materials and, most importantly, tested in practice most of the remedies for the treatment of diseases of the spine and joints. So, it turned out that the only new remedy which does not remove symptoms, but truly cures - this is a medicine that is not sold in pharmacies and is not advertised on TV! So that you don’t think that they are selling you another “miracle drug,” we will not tell you what an effective drug it is. If you are interested, you can read all the information about it yourself. Here is the link" .

List of used literature

  1. Evgeny Cherepanov "Healthy Spine School", 2012;
  2. Alexey Ivanchev "Spine. Secrets of Health", 2014;
  3. Victoria Karpukhina "Spinal health. Popov, Bubnovsky systems and other treatment methods", 2014;
  4. Yuri Glavchev “The spine is the provocateur of all diseases”, 2014;
  5. Stephen Ripple "Life without back pain. How to heal the spine and improve overall well-being", 2013;
  6. Galli, R.L., Speight, D.W., Simon, R.R. "Emergency orthopedics. Spine.", 1995

We know that functional disorders of the spine greatly affect overall well-being and performance, since the spine is our “Rod”. Unfortunately, a modern sedentary lifestyle contributes to the development of back pain. Manual therapy of the spine and osteopathy is good way restore health and improve a person’s quality of life. From the article you will learn what diseases are treated with this method, what types of therapy are available, and how the treatment is carried out. Reviews and cost.

Manual therapy is a form of physical therapy that is applied only by hand without the use of any devices. In manual therapy, practitioners use only their hands to manipulate joints and tissue to relieve pain caused by muscle spasms, muscle tension, and joint dysfunction.

Specialists in the field of treating spinal diseases use manual methods, but the techniques differ significantly. Stretching massage techniques, post-isometric relaxation, shock wave exposure, reflexology, and breathing techniques are used.

Chiropractors and osteopaths are classified as chiropractors. The first ones work using painful techniques: pushing, pressing, hitting. The effect appears after the first visits. The course consists of 3-5 sessions.

Osteopaths view the body as a single mechanism where all structures are interconnected. Special attention is paid to the brain and spinal cord, peripheral parts nervous system. The treatment is based on soft, gentle techniques.

What does a chiropractor treat?

Manual therapy of the spine helps in the treatment of scoliosis, osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernia, flat feet, joint diseases, hypertension, ulcers, cardiovascular diseases, and intestinal problems.

Manual therapy is a hands-on technique that involves manipulation to diagnose and treat any problematic conditions involving soft tissue and joint structures.

Benefits of manual therapy:

  • It helps in reducing pain (acute and chronic);
  • This gives you an increased range of motion (ROM).
  • Helps relax.
  • Improves your physical abilities.
  • Stabilizes tissue.
  • Rejuvenates you completely.
  • Improves various body functions.

The specialty of manual therapy is that it uses only the hands to apply pressure to muscles, tissues, and complex manipulations to relieve pain that can be caused by muscle tension, spasm, and joint dysfunction.

Who benefits from manual therapy?

Manual therapy can be helpful in treating people with damaged muscles that do not have sufficient range of motion in some musculoskeletal structures. This discomfort can cause pain and restrict movement. Manual physical therapy is used to strengthen joint mobility and reduce muscle tension so that the patient can move more naturally without suffering.

Manual therapy is indicated for the following problems:

  • acute back pain caused by dysfunction of the sacroiliac joint;
  • chronic back and neck pain;
  • soft tissue injuries of the musculoskeletal system;
  • back strain;
  • for relaxation of a person during the treatment of ligamentous injuries.

Painful processes in the upper spine lead to compression of the arteries and deterioration of blood flow. Unpleasant symptoms appear: headache, pressure surges, dizziness. Therapy methods help normalize the functioning of biochemical processes and eliminate compression of blood vessels and arteries.

Patients with chronic back pain, after manual therapy, report the high effectiveness of the method and the reduction of pain after the sessions.

Contraindications

The impact on the vertebrae enhances biochemical processes, which can lead to a worsening of the condition under certain circumstances. Before visiting a chiropractor, you should be examined for the presence of inflammatory, infectious, and oncological diseases.

Absolute contraindications are:

  • neoplasms in joints, spinal cord and brain, limbs, internal organs;
  • infections (tuberculous spondylitis, osteomyelitis, active rheumatism);
  • inflammation in the back;
  • exacerbation of organ diseases;
  • circulatory disorders;
  • spinal column injuries, especially in the postoperative period;
  • osteoporosis;
  • critical days.

For some diseases, the use of the method can be harmful. These include:

  • subluxation according to Kovacs;
  • Kimmerle anomaly, platybasia, assimilation C;
  • local hypermobility in the vertebral motor segments of the cervical spine;
  • lateral osteophytes of the cervical vertebrae;
  • lateral growths in arthrosis of the unco-vertebral joints.

Therapy and pregnancy

During fetal growth, a woman’s pelvic bones soften, internal cavities expand, and organs are compressed abdominal cavity, compression on the sacral and lumbar spine increases, and damage to the nerve roots occurs. The load on the knee and hip joints increases. Frequent complaints are constipation, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, and hemorrhoids.

The method is used as a prophylaxis or to eliminate pain. Recommended for poor physical fitness at the time of conception, toxicosis in the first and last trimester, edema, increased blood pressure, fear of childbirth.

Contraindications are:

  • placental abruption;
  • threat of miscarriage, premature birth.

The doctor must have a certificate confirming his qualifications and allowing him to conduct therapy. The procedures improve physical and psychological condition and prevent intrauterine pathologies and fetal hypoxia. Simple exercises a woman can learn and perform them at home.

Techniques and types of influence

The therapy uses traditional and complementary methods that complement each other. The choice depends on the disease, location and degree of development of the disease.

Traditional methods are represented by manipulation, mobilization, and soft techniques.

The first type involves the use of strong jerking movements used in working with the spine. Hard impact helps restore joint mobility. The second group includes bending and movements that stretch the vertebrae. As a result, blood circulation improves, swelling goes away, and joints move better. Indications for use are muscle hypertonicity and excessive ligament mobility. The technique is absolutely painless.

Additional techniques include acupuncture, acupressure, visceral and craniosacral therapy, myofascial release, manual lymphatic drainage, massage therapy, and applied kinesiology.

Acupuncture - effects on active points using needles. Used in the treatment of unequal disorders, depression, pain relief. Acupressure is a method of applying pressure to a point. The main technique of visceral therapy is abdominal massage, tapping, and pressure. Craniosacral therapy helps relieve pain. Its essence comes down to working with the bones of the sacrum and skull.

Massotherapy - good method, which by improving blood circulation, increasing muscle elasticity, restoring their proper functioning.

Myofascial release is aimed at working with muscle tension formed due to injuries, stress, spinal curvature, and physical inactivity. Using applied kinesiology, a specialist helps restore the ability to move correctly, without creating muscle and joint stress. Lymphatic drainage helps improve metabolism, enrich tissues with oxygen, relieve fatigue and pain. The main reasons for treatment are hernia, scoliosis, osteochondrosis.

You might be interested in: The types of massage differ from each other in that their effects on the human body are absolutely...

Principles of treatment for hernia

Treatment of the disease begins with an initial appointment, at which the doctor examines the patient. Based on the information received, a treatment program and recommendations are developed. Compliance with the rules of nutrition, sleep and rest, and physical activity allows you to consolidate the effect of treatment. The developed treatment algorithm can be adjusted as improvements occur.

The initial stage includes traction, which helps relieve pain. After this, massage and physical therapy are prescribed to strengthen the muscle corset. Other techniques are used to restore the functioning of intervertebral discs.

People with obesity and poor posture are recommended to take a special course physical exercise and acupuncture. A diet is prescribed. The use of manual therapy methods for a hernia is not effective without working to correct posture and reduce body weight. Pharamacupuncture is a method that consists of introducing special medications into active points. It is used as an alternative to acupuncture. The presence of some diseases does not allow the disease to be treated using manual therapy methods. Among them are sequestered hernias and myelopathy.

Features of work with scoliosis

Before prescribing procedures, the doctor assesses the patient’s age, etiopathogenetic, morphological features based on an examination by an orthopedist, neurologist, or radiologist. A prerequisite is diagnostics that determine the motor function of muscles and joints.

The operating technique has the following features:

  • soft techniques are used;
  • the impact is aimed exclusively at the area of ​​curvature;
  • corrective movements are carried out in the direction of the deformation area;
  • the possibility of excessive mobility of the spine is minimized due to the weakness of the “connecting” structures.

The gentle technique is considered the most effective in treating scoliosis, especially in children. When working with children, it is recommended to work only with the muscles, avoiding pressure on the vertebrae.

Some experts suggest treating scoliosis with manual techniques, directing the joints to the physiologically correct position.

Work on the body with scoliosis is designed to tone the weak muscle corset, restore the mobility of the vertebrae, increase the strength of the bones, and eliminate functional type blocks.

Therapy for osteochondrosis

Treatment with manual therapy methods for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is aimed at reducing unpleasant symptoms and removing the blockade. Returning joint mobility. The main method of work is segmented massage.

Parts of the spine are associated with a diseased organ or nerve. Warming and relaxing techniques help reduce discomfort.

To unlock the joints of the thoracic region and neck, mobilization techniques are used: stretching techniques, traction. Active power techniques help restore mobility: everting the elbow and shoulder joints, bringing the shoulder blades together, lifting by the armpits and shaking. This stage is the most painful.

Contraindications for manual therapy are:

  • oncological diseases;
  • infections;
  • heart pathologies;
  • cracks and fractures;
  • acute period of polyarthritis;
  • disc myelopathy;
  • lordosis, kyphosis, scoliosis;
  • mental disorders, diseases of the nervous system.

Mobilization is used both independently and as a warming technique. Manipulation is carried out directly by blows, pressing, or indirectly, using flexion, extension, and twisting. A characteristic crunch indicates that the joint is in place. It is important that the specialist has the appropriate qualifications and is well versed in the methods.

How does an appointment with a specialist work?

The first visit is limited to examination and consultation. The doctor checks the degree of joint mobility, muscle tension, and the presence of pain in the ligaments.

After the examination, the patient is sent for an MRI or X-ray to check for hernias and other pathologies. It is recommended to visit a reflexologist, vertebrologist, or neurologist if you have diseases of the corresponding profile. If necessary, the person undergoes a vascular examination. Then a treatment program is drawn up.

The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Make an appointment with a Chiropractor

To make an appointment with a doctor or diagnostics, you just need to call a single phone number
+7 495 488-20-52 in Moscow

+7 812 416-38-96 in St. Petersburg

The operator will listen to you and redirect the call to the desired clinic, or accept an order for an appointment with the specialist you need.

Or you can click the green “Register Online” button and leave your phone number. The operator will call you back within 15 minutes and select a specialist who meets your request.

At the moment, appointments are being made to specialists and clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

What is a chiropractor?

Chiropractor- this is a specialist ( more often with medical education ), who received training in the field manual therapy. This area of ​​medicine is a combination of various diagnostic and treatment methods that are carried out by the hands of a chiropractor.

Some believe that the professional activity of this specialist is similar to the work of a chiropractor. But this opinion is erroneous, since a chiropractor specializes in straightening bones and joints, while the work of a chiropractor is more like massage.
Since manual therapy has a direct effect on the nervous system, bones, and muscles, manual therapy is inextricably linked with such disciplines as neurology, orthopedics, and traumatology.

What is the job of a chiropractor?

The main principle of this specialist’s work is to provide therapeutic massage. Manual therapy differs from regular massage in that the doctor affects only certain areas of the body, using special techniques.

Most often, people with pathologies of the musculoskeletal system turn to a chiropractor. This doctor also provides professional assistance to those who suffer from diseases of muscle tissue, circulatory or metabolic disorders. The impact that a specialist has on muscles and joints helps improve blood supply and nutrition of tissues, due to which a healing effect is achieved.

Most often, people turn to a chiropractor for diseases of the following organs:

  • Head. Headaches due to impaired blood supply to the neck are a common reason for visits to this doctor. The massage performed by the therapist normalizes blood circulation, resulting in improvement.
  • Joints, bones. Patients often come to this doctor on the referral of other doctors after fractures, dislocations and other injuries. Manual therapy promotes rapid and proper bone growth.
  • Organs of the digestive tract. For some problems of the gastrointestinal tract, therapeutic massage can significantly improve the patient's condition. This happens thanks to such positive effects manual therapy as acceleration of metabolism, improvement of intestinal motility.
  • Back. Frequent patients of a chiropractor are people who spend a lot of time at the computer. Staying in a sitting position for a long time leads to curvature of the spine and, as a result, pain. Strengthening muscles through manual therapy helps correct posture and maintain a straight back in the future.
One of the distinctive properties of manual therapy is the absence drug treatment. This doctor does not prescribe medications ( in rare cases, vitamins), but may prescribe physiotherapy and physical therapy.

Chiropractor courses

Chiropractor courses are theoretical and practical training sessions that allow you to gain the necessary skills to work in this specialty. The duration of training depends on the initial preparation of the student. Thus, for classical massage specialists and other people who have massage skills, courses lasting no more than 24 hours are usually held. In the absence of any skills, courses can last from several weeks to several months.

Upon completion of training, diplomas are issued that allow you to work as a chiropractor. The entire learning process can be divided into three main stages. The duration of each stage depends on the type of courses.

The first stage of manual therapy courses
At the first stage, students receive general knowledge of anatomy and physiology human body. This knowledge is especially important for maintaining safety guidelines when performing massage therapy. They also help chiropractors to correctly interpret patient complaints in the future, determine the presence of contraindications and draw up an anamnesis ( medical history).

At the first stage of the courses, the structure and functions of the following body systems are considered:

  • bones, joints, ligaments;
  • circulatory and lymphatic systems;
  • muscles of the head, neck and other organs;
  • organs of the chest, abdominal cavity and pelvis;
  • innervation ( nerve supply) organs and tissues.
The second stage of manual therapy courses
The second stage is devoted directly to the techniques on which manual therapy is based. Students learn the basic methods of therapeutic massage, the rules for their implementation and the situations in which they will be appropriate. Theoretical knowledge is supported by practical exercises.

At the second stage of the course, the following manual therapy techniques are studied:

  • Cranial. This type of therapy involves influencing the bones of the skull and sacral spine. The main technique is soft stroking movements.
  • Visceral. This direction of manual therapy involves influencing the internal organs of the abdominal cavity, chest and pelvis. Visceral therapy is based on soft pressure, point pressure, squeezing, and gentle twisting.
  • Structural. This technique is used for problems with the musculoskeletal system and involves effects on bones, ligaments, and muscles. Structural therapy is performed with pushes, blows and slaps of medium and high force.
  • Myofascial. This type of manual therapy is more often used during diagnostics. The therapist presses the soft tissue with his fingers or palm to detect painful areas on the patient's body.
The third stage of manual therapy courses
At the final stage, much attention is paid to the psychological aspect in the work of a chiropractor. The ability to make a positive impression, establishing contact with the patient, mechanisms for preventing conflict situations - all these points are considered at the third stage of training. Also, specialists who teach manual therapy courses touch on issues of professional ethics, sanitary and hygienic rules of massage, and safety measures for both the therapist and the patient.

What does a chiropractor treat?

The competence of a chiropractor lies wide range diseases. These are mainly diseases of the musculoskeletal system and muscular system. Manual therapy is also recommended for diseases of the cardiovascular system, metabolic disorders, and flat feet. At the same time, there are limitations to manual therapy.

As already mentioned, the main indication for manual therapy is musculoskeletal pathology. The essence this method treatment consists in eliminating pathological phenomena in the musculoskeletal system. Such a phenomenon may be displacement of the vertebrae, osteochondrosis, hernia. Correction of these pathological phenomena occurs with the help of the hands of a chiropractor without the use of medicines. At the same time, manual therapy is most effective when combined with reflexology and physiotherapy.

Manual therapy for osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a chronic disease of the spine that affects the elastic intervertebral discs. These discs play a big role in the shock absorption function ( softens loads), make the spine flexible and elastic. With osteochondrosis, due to impaired metabolism and blood circulation in the spine, degenerative processes begin to develop in the intervertebral disc. As a result, the disc loses its elasticity, strength and resilience. It dries out very quickly, becoming thin and less durable. Such a disc ceases to perform its main function of shock absorption and cannot withstand the load from the spine. In the future, if no measures are taken, the disc ring may bulge, forming a hernia.

The main causes of osteochondrosis include:

  • irrational physical activity with improper distribution on the spine;
  • sedentary lifestyle;
  • congenital anomalies of the spine;
  • chronic infections of the body;
  • injuries;
  • metabolic disorders.
Osteochondrosis can affect various parts of the spine, and depending on this, its symptoms will differ.

Types of osteochondrosis include:

  • Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. The main symptom is aching or acute pain in the neck, painful sensations when turning the head. Associated symptoms may include blurred vision ( spots before eyes), tinnitus, dizziness.
  • Osteochondrosis of the thoracic region. Manifested by aching sensations in the chest ( maximally expressed with a deep breath), pain between the shoulder blades, between the ribs, especially when walking.
  • Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region. It is the most common type of osteochondrosis. Manifested by lower back pain, which can be sharp or aching. The pain intensifies with physical activity and can radiate to the tailbone or leg.
Using special manual techniques, the chiropractor distances the surfaces of the vertebral joints from each other. Basic treatment for osteochondrosis is to relieve stiffness ( blockade) spine, after which the therapist moves on to relaxing techniques. Before proceeding to the spine, the chiropractor warms up the muscles smoothly without sudden movements. Next, by directly pressing on the vertebrae, the specialist restores their previous position. As a result of deep warming up of the muscles, the natural curve of the spine is restored, the discs are inserted into place, and pain is relieved. It is important to know that manual therapy is recommended in the first three stages of osteochondrosis, when there are no bone growths.

Manual therapy for hernia

Lumbar hernia is a common complication of osteochondrosis. It is a protrusion of the intervertebral disc into the spinal canal. In turn, this leads to pinching of the nerve roots, which is manifested by severe pain.
It is important to know that manual therapy is used only in mild cases of intervertebral hernia, which are not accompanied by rupture of the fibrous ring. In other cases, medication and surgery.

When a hernia has formed, the chiropractor applies his hands to the site of the hernia projection, having previously warmed up the muscles. This creates negative pressure, which allows the hernia to retract back to its location. Next, the therapist works on the entire spine, which improves circulation in cartilage and bone tissue and promotes their restoration.

The chiropractor must review all previous examinations of the patient, and if there are none, prescribe them. So, it is recommended to consult a neurologist, do an x-ray, and sometimes magnetic resonance ( MRI) . If examination shows ligament rupture or protrusion ( bulging) disc, against the background of vertebral displacement, then this is an absolute contraindication to manual therapy.

What is the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor?

An osteopath is a doctor who has specialized in alternative medicine with a specialization in osteopathy. In turn, osteopathy is a branch of medicine that considers a violation of the anatomical relationships between organs as the cause of the disease. An osteopath and a chiropractor, first of all, differ in their approaches to treatment. The main task of a chiropractor is to eliminate any symptom, while an osteopath treats the entire body. We can say that manual therapy is the “daughter” of osteopathy. What is common in both disciplines is that the healing instrument is the hands of a specialist.

So, an osteopath, like a doctor, works with the whole body. In his work, he uses techniques such as relaxation, normalization of blood flow, drainage of the lymphatic system, and restoration of micromobility. The chiropractor mainly uses pressing and reduction techniques.

Chiropractor for children

Manual therapy is a non-drug treatment method that is also indicated for children. In his practice, a pediatric chiropractor uses non-aggressive methods of influencing the child’s body.

What does a chiropractor treat for children?

A chiropractor treats a wide range of childhood conditions. First of all, these are diseases of the musculoskeletal system and muscle pathology. However, in Lately manual therapy is increasingly recommended for somatic ( bodily) diseases, for example, bronchial asthma.

Indications for manual therapy in children are:
  • birth injuries in infants;
  • scoliosis or kyphosis;
  • infantile torticollis;
  • muscle pathology.
Birth injuries
Unfortunately, birth injuries are not uncommon in pediatrics. The reason for this may be incorrect presentation of the fetus, rapid or, conversely, prolonged labor. During rapid childbirth, the upper cervical spine is most often injured. If unqualified actions of an obstetrician are added to the pathology during childbirth, then this is complicated by the confusion of the vertebrae, the development of torticollis and plexitis ( brachial plexus lesion).

First of all, birth injuries require manual therapy. The sooner help is provided, the fewer complications will accompany the child.

Scoliosis
This is one of the most common spinal pathologies in children. Most often it appears in preschoolers and school-age children when there is a load on the spine. The spine does not always cope with this load, which is manifested by its deformation in various planes. Scoliosis is a deviation of the spine in the frontal plane. This disease can be either congenital or acquired. Depending on the stage of scoliosis, different treatment tactics can be used. So, in case of severe curvatures, surgical treatment is carried out, which consists of installing special metal structures that fix the vertebrae together. In addition, corset therapy, anti-scoliosis gymnastics and manual therapy are used. During manual therapy, much attention is paid not to the spine itself, but to the muscular frame. So, if the muscles are weak for some reason, then they cannot support the spine.

Infantile torticollis
Torticollis is a common childhood pathology that can be congenital or acquired. The most common condition is acquired post-traumatic torticollis.

Symptoms of torticollis may include the following:

  • The head is always directed in one direction. Moreover, this is always observed at rest, in motion, in sleep, while swimming.
  • It is difficult to turn the head in the other direction. When you try to turn the baby's head, he resists.
  • When the child is positioned on his stomach, an s-shaped curve of the spine is visible.
  • In a dream, a child clenches only one fist.
  • Sometimes cranial deformities are visible.
Torticollis should be treated immediately, as it does not go away with age. The main treatment, which should begin from two weeks of age, comes down to manual therapy, gymnastics, and electrophoresis. During treatment, it is important to pay attention to the whole body, and not just the sore muscle. So, massaging the muscle should be combined with massage of the baby’s chest and back. The sore muscle must be massaged from its attachment point behind the ears to the collarbone and back. It is also important to relieve tension from the muscles; for this it is recommended to place the child on a fitball ( fitness ball) and, holding him by the legs, let him fall. It is important to consider that a healthy muscle also needs a massage, but more energetic.

In parallel with manual therapy, daily exercises are recommended for children with torticollis. It is best done in the pool, where the muscles relax as much as possible.


Muscle pathology
Muscle pathology is also an indication for manual therapy. However, it is necessary to take into account the nature of the disease. Hypertonicity is most common in newborns due to perinatal trauma. This condition is characterized increased tone all muscle groups, as a result of which all the child’s muscles are constantly tense. This disorder occurs quite often - in every tenth child.

Manifestations of hypertension in a child may be the following:

  • the baby behaves restlessly and cries constantly;
  • often arches;
  • throws his head back;
  • constantly demands the breast, as he is constantly hungry;
  • screams monotonously and piercingly;
  • during sleep, the limbs are pressed tightly against each other, and the head is thrown back;
  • gait on tiptoes, and not on the whole foot.
Before you begin treatment, it is important to find out what caused this condition. After all, hypertension is a symptom, not an independent disease. Most often, this is caused by birth injuries and pathology of the central nervous system. Treatment in this case is complex and, in addition to manual therapy, includes other methods.

Treatments for hypertension include:

  • manual therapy;
  • gymnastics;
  • aquatherapy;
  • physiotherapy.
Manual therapy courses are carried out continuously with breaks of 4–5 days. At the same time, the massage is relaxing.

The opposite state of hypertonicity is called hypotonicity - decreased tone in all muscle groups. The main manifestation is muscle weakness. As a rule, it is a consequence of past infections or congenital anomalies.

Causes of hypotension include:

  • birth trauma and, as a consequence, insufficient blood supply;
  • unbalanced nutrition of the baby;
  • chronic infections;
  • malnutrition ( underdevelopment) child.
With hypotonicity, the sucking reflex is impaired, and the child often falls asleep during breastfeeding. There is no flexion characteristic of newborns ( bending) limbs. When the baby sleeps, his legs are fully extended. Also, such children move little, do not cry, and sleep more often than others. The main treatment is massage and gymnastics.

Manual diagnostics

Before starting treatment, a detailed manual diagnosis is necessary. It consists of collecting anamnesis ( medical history) and examining the child. Anamnestic data are very important, as they allow us to find out what caused the injury and the development of perinatal pathology. It is important to know how the birth took place ( were they long or fast?), how the pregnancy proceeded, whether auxiliary manipulations were used to extract the child. Equally important is information about the birth of a child and his early development, namely when he began to hold his head up, roll over, and take his first steps.

After a thorough history taking, the chiropractor begins to examine the child. The inspection should be carried out in a well-lit room.

Principles of examining a child by a chiropractor
Initially, the therapist pays attention to the proportionality of the child’s development and overall physique. A newborn baby is characterized by slight hypertonicity - the arms and legs are in a flexed position, the hands are bent into fists. While lying on his back, the child can turn or throw back his head. The baby's facial expression is noteworthy - it can be gloomy, suffering or calm.

With various perinatal and congenital pathologies, the child can take various pathological positions ( for example, frog pose). Next, the chiropractor should evaluate the upper and lower extremities. They can be sharply bent, straightened or brought towards the body ( like a soldier). Determination of muscle tone should occur from head to toe. In this case, symmetry, tone and the presence of edema should be taken into account. So the muscles can be in a state of hypotonicity or hypertonicity, and this, in turn, can be one-sided or bilateral ( that is, symmetrical). In parallel with the assessment of muscle tone, the skeletal system is also examined. It is important to assess the condition of the ribs, the position of the collarbones, and the structure of the sternum.

Tests used in manual diagnostics include:

  • Head flexion resistance test. The result may be normal, low or high.
  • Traction test. From a supine position, lightly take the child by the arms and pull him towards him. At the same time, moderate resistance is felt.
  • Resistance to hip abduction. The lower limbs of the child, also lying on his back, are moved to the side with a moderately sharp movement. In this case, resistance should be felt.
Sometimes correct diagnosis will help identify existing problems before they appear. After all, birth injuries can manifest themselves both immediately and after a certain time.

Manual therapy in pediatrics is considered one of the official methods of treatment. Its value is also very high. This is explained by the high plasticity of the musculoskeletal and muscular system in children.

Appointment with a chiropractor

An appointment with a chiropractor is no different from other doctors and is a patient’s visit to a doctor for the purpose of diagnosis and subsequent treatment ( if needed). At the initial consultation, the therapist listens to the patient’s existing complaints and also conducts a manual examination. First, the doctor visually assesses the patient’s figure and posture in order to determine whether there are spinal curvatures and other pathologies. He then performs palpation to determine muscle tone and other deformities ( fingering), which can be superficial, sliding, pinched, deep.

Based on the data obtained, the doctor makes a conclusion about whether the patient needs manual therapy sessions. Often, in order to make a decision and exclude the presence of contraindications, a chiropractor prescribes instrumental examinations or consultations with related specialists. Among the most prescribed studies by this doctor are radiography, magnetic resonance or computed tomography.

Your own chiropractor

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Hello! In this article we will tell you what the method of manual therapy is, what diseases it can be used for, and what treatment methods the specialist uses.

The concept of manual therapy and its benefits

The use of hands for therapeutic purposes using techniques and special techniques is called manual therapy. The doctor removes clamps and blockages. Blood supply is restored, which leads to the return of mobility and improved quality of life.

For reversible disorders, it is used together with medications, acupuncture, and exercise therapy.

Manual medicine diagnoses and corrects abnormalities in the functioning of the spine, joints, internal organs, soft tissues, and bones. It is part of general medicine.

Manual therapy of the spine achieves greater results compared to other types of treatment, since it practices a separate approach to the patient, using various techniques and techniques for each case.

The advantage of manual therapy is the relief of pain that cannot be controlled with medication. For treatment to be adequate and effective, the doctor must have knowledge in the field neurology, orthopedics, neurophysiology.

Despite the fact that eliminating individual problems requires up to 20 sessions, one is enough to alleviate the condition. After a visit to a chiropractor, muscle spasms are relieved, fluid circulation improves, metabolism accelerates, and joint mobility increases.

The meaning of the technique and significance in modern medicine

A chiropractor eliminates orthopedic defects, corrects posture, and changes in the spine.

After the manipulations, the pressure on the discs and nerve fibers is reduced. The patient experiences relief from osteochondrosis, lumbago, radiculitis. Pain goes away, mobility increases. The doctor cannot remove the hernia, but he can carry out prevention or relieve pain after putting the vertebrae in place.

Manual therapy of the thoracic spine eliminates inhalation disturbances and relieves discomfort in the sternum. The results of correction for kyphosis (stooping) are visible.

Treatment is not limited to the musculoskeletal system. The conductivity of nerve impulses is subject to correction, and normal tissue characteristics are restored.

Manual therapy has acquired properties modern medicine in the 20th century. Specialized medical centers have appeared. In 1962, the International Federation of Manual Medicine was formed.

In our country, neurologists were at the origins of the new movement. Under the USSR, the All-Union Association of Manual Medicine was organized in 1987; after the collapse of the Union, it was renamed the All-Russian Association. Since 1997, manual therapy has been officially registered.

When to see a chiropractor

Before choosing a specialist, they first undergo an examination and determine the diagnosis. A chiropractor is chosen for discomfort and pain syndromes that impede movement in:

  • lower back;
  • shoulders, shoulder blade area;
  • elbows, knees;
  • coccyx, pelvic joints.

Contact a chiropractor if you have:

  • noise and ringing in the ears;
  • numbness of the limbs;
  • memory impairment;
  • lack of concentration;
  • birth injuries in children;
  • difficulty breathing;
  • visual impairment.

They also contact a specialist to maintain health.

The benefits and harms of the technique

The theory of manual therapy teaches that the roots of diseases should be sought in the improper functioning of the spine. When deviations occur, cerebral circulation is disrupted and nerves are pinched, causing pain. Muscle spasms, rapid physical fatigue, and malfunction of internal organs are directly related to changes in the spine.

With the aging process, there is degeneration of the vertebrae, affecting and irritating the nerve endings. Inflammation begins and blood supply is disrupted. These phenomena lead to stiffness of movements and a deterioration in the quality of life.

A chiropractor will not return the vertebrae to their original, healthy state, but can carry out preventive manipulations, stop further destruction of the spine, and relieve painful symptoms.

There have been cases where patients managed to avoid surgery if the specialist combined manual manipulation with taking medications, which led to stable remission.

Harm is caused by inexperienced doctors through ignorance or carelessness. Incorrect actions lead to injuries to the spinal column and nerve damage. Special danger represent manipulations on the neck, which can lead to death.

Treatment methods, techniques and techniques

Chiropractors use special methods and techniques in their work.

  • Subcutaneous myofascial therapy method

It consists of using the relationship between malfunctions of an organ and dysfunction of the muscles associated with it. To determine the strength of the effect on the tissue, a preliminary examination is carried out. Helps with neuralgic pain, osteochondrosis, hernias, digestive and respiratory organs.

  • Arthro-vertebral therapy method

Treats and restores joint function. This is the case when pain is felt during manual therapy. The doctor coordinates the actions at the preliminary stage with the patient. Treatment occurs with the help of intense, mobilization shocks. Manual therapy of joints eliminates compression of nerve fibers, normalizes motor activity.

  • Cranial or craniosacral method

Used in head and neck therapy. The result of the manipulations is the elimination of muscle pain, normalization of blood supply to the blood vessels of the brain. The doctor performs a massage with light movements for an hour. Painless techniques lead to the release of energy and improvement of the condition.

  • Visceral method

Returns an internal organ that has been displaced due to surgery, illness, or injury to its normal position. Visceral manual therapy works by influencing internal organs through the abdominal wall. The method is suitable for the prevention of osteochondrosis, diabetes mellitus, pancreatitis, obesity. Corrects psycho-emotional states.

  • Postisometric relaxation

The technique is part of soft manual muscle therapy. Healthy muscle fibers become tense, followed by diseased ones. Next comes the process of relaxation and self-stretching. Treatment requires active participation patient.

  • Postreciprocal relaxation

The technique is based on stretching the skin, muscles, and ligaments. Used after injuries. Improves muscle tone, relieves restrictions on joint mobility.

  • Pressure

Specialists use the technique to eliminate trigger points (muscle thickening) during spasms or scar tissue changes. Performed using acupressure technique.

  • Rhythmic mobilization

Doesn't call discomfort. The technique includes stretching the joints, shifting them to opposite positions, and bringing the articular surfaces closer together. Used as preparatory manipulations or as an independent procedure.

  • Positional mobilization

Executes slowly. The doctor extends the joint to its maximum possible state and holds it in this position for a minute. At the same time, it stretches the flexor muscles and contracts the extensor muscles.

  • Push mobilization

Sharp mechanical pressure aimed at realigning discs and eliminating joint subluxations.

Types of manual therapy

The classification offers two types:

  • therapy of joints and spine;
  • cranial osteopathy.

The goal of spinal and joint therapy is to return motor activity and relieve pain syndromes. The doctor uses the body’s reserves in case of pathologies, that is, he does not treat specific diseases, but stimulates all structures involved in the movement towards normal functioning in changed conditions.

Difference between osteopathy and manual therapy lies in identifying or ignoring the roots of the disease. An osteopath looks for the cause, then eliminates it, while a chiropractor works with the patient under existing conditions, without identifying the reasons.

The craniosacral system consists of the brain (brain, spinal column), spinal fluid, skull, and sacrum. A pulsation occurs inside the system due to the increase and decrease in the volume of liquid. Rhythmic vibrations are best observed on the head and sacrum.

Rhythm disturbances cause disruptions in brain function. Rhythm disruption occurs during birth and lifetime head injuries, maxillofacial surgical interventions, and wearing dentures.

The cranial osteopath acts on the bones of the skull very gently, with almost imperceptible movements, restoring mobility. In addition to the head, the rhythmic vibrations of the vertebrae and sacrum are normalized.

Main indications for procedures

Manual therapy is indicated for diagnoses:

  • spinal hernia;
  • arthrosis, arthritis;
  • intercostal neuralgia;
  • osteochondrosis;
  • scoliosis;
  • lumbago;
  • radiculitis;
  • flat feet;
  • diseases of the ENT organs;
  • birth, traumatic brain injury;
  • obesity;
  • hypertension;
  • pathologies of internal organs.

Chiropractors restore the body after neuroses and depression. Rejuvenation techniques are used.

Treatment of osteochondrosis

Dystrophic changes in the intervertebral discs are called osteochondrosis. The disease can be treated using manual therapy methods at stages 1–3 before the formation of bone growths. Pain is caused by pressure on the discs, irritation of nerve endings, and muscle spasms.

The tasks of a chiropractor for osteochondrosis are to relieve blockades, pain, and restore joint and spinal mobility.

The disease affects the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral regions.

These results are achieved by using segmental massage, mobilization techniques, active and passive traction, and other forceful influences. These techniques are accompanied by clicks and crackling sounds, which indicates the unblocking of tight joints and vertebrae.

Therapy at home is allowed when performing special spine-stretching exercises and self-massage of the neck.

A doctor's help for cervical osteochondrosis is needed for difficulties with bending and bending, pain in the shoulder blades and arms, migraines, and dizziness. Pain in the heart area, between the shoulder blades and ribs, indicates that the disease affects the thoracic region, which is rare.

Manual therapy of the lumbar region and back is required for lumbago in the lower back, cramps and numbness in the legs. Correctly chosen treatment methods accelerate regeneration processes and prevent protrusions and herniations of the intervertebral disc.

Pathological changes in the spine with osteochondrosis lead to compression of the sciatic nerve, pressure on which causes pain and muscle spasms. In addition to these symptoms, the disease is marked by lumbago and pain in the back of the thigh. Therapy for the sciatic nerve consists of deep muscle work, stretching the spinal column in the sacrum and lower back.

During manual therapy of the legs, negative changes and compactions are first identified through examination. Next, to mobilize the joints, the toes are stretched to relax the ligaments and muscles, sharp flexion and extension are performed, alternating with traction.

Treatment of spinal hernia

Before visiting a doctor, an MRI or CT scan is performed. Hernia treatment is trusted experienced professional, which uses decompression and striking techniques. The doctor’s movements during an exacerbation are light and flexible.

After the acute period has passed, muscle relaxation and traction are used.

In case of a hernia, precise, correct manual actions lead to the development of negative pressure, at which the displaced disc returns to its place. Treatment relieves stress, painful symptoms, prevents further development hernias

Relief occurs after the first session, ten in total are prescribed. If the doctor makes a mistake, the precostal area spasms.

Spinal hernia is a complex disease. In the absence of timely treatment, you can become disabled.

Cervical spine treatment

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a companion for people working in a sitting static position using a computer. Physical inactivity, excess weight, scoliosis causes deformation of the intervertebral discs, pain in the neck, arms, and shoulders. Migraines happen. Due to poor circulation, you feel dizzy and your blood pressure rises.

Manual therapy of the cervical spine relieves pain and restores motor activity of the cervical vertebrae and shoulder joints.

At the beginning of the session, the doctor determines the location of the pinching and gives a light relaxing massage. This is followed by blows with the fist on the palm lying on the vertebrae. The patient is asked to tense and relax periodically. The chiropractor also uses distraction flexion with light pressure.

Manipulations are carried out once every 3 days. The doctor decides how many sessions are needed depending on the severity of the disease. After the procedures, the patient is advised to wear a special support collar and rest.

The positive effect will be enhanced by physiotherapy, massage, exercise therapy, and swimming.

Treatment of diseases of internal organs

Almost all diseases of internal organs in a state of remission can be treated, excluding contraindications. Mobilization techniques and correction of the relative positions of organs are used.

At the first stage, the doctor acts on the diaphragm, saturating the blood with oxygen. When you press on the active points, blood supply improves, which leads to increased recovery.

In cases of congestion and prolapse of organs, manual therapy of the abdomen is used. It consists of visceral massage of the organ through the peritoneum, the main techniques of which are pressure on the area of ​​the diseased organ, vibration and kneading. The result of the manipulations is the normalization of work:

  • autonomic nervous system;
  • ENT organs;
  • blood and lymphatic vessels;
  • hearts;
  • bronchopulmonary system;
  • musculoskeletal system;
  • reproductive organs.

Skin-visceral reflex connections and metabolism are restored, and the body’s overall immune defense is strengthened. Exacerbation of chronic diseases is prevented, diabetes mellitus and pancreatitis are prevented.

Manual therapy of internal organs is carried out through the spinal column and by acting directly on the diseased organ.

Treatment of other diseases

In case of malfunctions of the central nervous system, manual therapy practices help with the following diseases and conditions:

  • after a heart attack and cerebral ischemia;
  • pain syndromes of various origins;
  • cerebral circulatory disorders;
  • neurological disorders of newborns with traumatic brain injuries.

During treatment, blood flow through the vessels connected to the spinal column is restored, and disorders of neuromuscular transmission are corrected. Only gentle manual therapy is used for newborns, excluding pushing mobilization, accompanied by crunching or clicking.

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Causes of pain after a session

  1. Pain after a session is caused by a redistribution of the load from one muscle group to another. When even one vertebra is realigned, changes occur in the entire musculoskeletal system. Pain and discomfort indicate that the process of combating pathology and restoring normal functioning of the body has begun.

The pain intensifies after the third session and disappears after the fifth. The body gets used to working in a new mode.

  1. Another cause of pain after manual therapy is muscle tone and the release of lactic acid. It can be removed by taking a hot bath or rubbing.

Pain that begins later than two hours after visiting a chiropractor indicates an exacerbation of a chronic disease or the onset of a new disease.

Possible complications

If the indications and contraindications are followed, then complications during manual therapy sessions arise only due to insufficient qualifications and errors of doctors.

TO possible complications relate:

  • fractures of the vertebral processes;
  • rupture of muscle fibers, ligaments;
  • circulatory disorders;
  • loss of sensitivity in certain areas of the body;

Excessive exposure when treating older people is the cause of pain in the intercostal area.

Manual therapy during pregnancy

Women expecting a child, due to the increased load on the spine and pelvic bones, feel pain in the lower back, suffer from toxicosis, and swelling. The attractiveness of manual therapy during pregnancy is that the treatment takes place without prohibited medications or surgical intervention.

A chiropractor, using gentle techniques, improves sleep, normalizes sleep, and relieves prenatal neuroses. A well-designed individual treatment program helps strengthen muscles, relieve spinal pain, and prepare the expectant mother for labor.

For example, the vertebra will fall into place, and the pain will disappear if you apply pressure to the cervical spine. The scoliosis arc is straightened by extending the leg. A special set of exercises is used to strengthen muscles. One treatment session for pregnant women is recommended to last no more than half an hour if there is no discomfort. If pain occurs, treatment is stopped immediately.

Manual therapy of the pelvis using soft techniques is carried out even with minor anatomical changes, since the pelvic bones play a large role in the development of the fetus and experience enormous stress during childbirth.

The only negative sign that prevents sessions is possible placental abruption.

Contraindications

Contraindications to manual therapy are:

  • acute cerebral circulatory disorders;
  • fresh injuries of the spine, joints;
  • bone fractures no more than six months old;
  • osteoporosis;
  • rehabilitation of heart attacks, strokes;
  • mental illness;
  • spondylolysis;
  • recent surgeries;
  • tumors;
  • osteomyelitis;
  • acute stages of diseases.

In the work of a chiropractor, intuition, based on clinical experience, plays an important role, helping to solve difficult problems or abandon them in time. The theory of the methods used is not yet sufficiently developed. Based on this, be careful in choosing a specialist.

This is a set of methods of manual influence on the patient’s body for the purpose of diagnosing and treating diseases of the musculoskeletal system and internal organs. It is more effective than some methods of drug and hardware treatment of spinal diseases. The main task The chiropractor is to create a favorable position of the nerve roots and structures of the spinal column.

Indications for manual therapy

Manual techniques on the musculoskeletal system help improve the condition of patients:

  • with headaches, dizziness;
  • osteochondrosis;
  • intervertebral hernias;
  • curvature of the spine;
  • posture defects;
  • radiculitis;
  • venous insufficiency;
  • joint diseases;
  • pain and muscle tension.

Contraindications to manual therapy

The method does not apply in the case of:

  • recent spinal fractures;
  • acute rheumatism;
  • cerebrovascular accidents;
  • Bekhterev's disease;
  • oncological diseases;
  • blood diseases;
  • period of pregnancy and breastfeeding;
  • hypertension;
  • recent heart attack or stroke;
  • acute gastrointestinal diseases.

Manual therapy techniques

Subcutaneous myofascial therapy method

Used for radiculitis, arthrosis, arthritis, headaches, intervertebral hernias, muscle pain. A course of therapy for the spine relieves chronic fatigue, pain, improves posture and brings ease of movement.

Arthro-vertebral therapy method

Used to restore joint mobility. The doctor works on the target areas, relieving pain, stiffness in movement, muscle pain and headaches.

Cranial method

Eliminates disorders associated with the brain. A specialist in the field of manual therapy influences the bone and muscle structures of the skull. The results of the course are the disappearance of headaches and dizziness, a decrease in intracranial pressure, relaxation of the cervical muscles and improved memory.

Visceral method

Allows you to improve the condition and function of the liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, intestines, and genitals.

Manual therapy techniques

During the procedure the following techniques can be used:

  • rhythmic mobilization (rotating, squeezing, stretching);
  • positional mobilization (rhythmic mobilization, manipulation, relaxation);
  • push mobilization (reduction of spinal discs, elimination of joint dislocations);
  • post-isometric relaxation (short-term muscle tension followed by stretching).

What does manual therapy do and when can I expect results?

For diagnosis, the chiropractor uses own hands, however, if the patient has the results of previous instrumental studies and tests, it is better to take them with you.

The procedure lasts on average 45 minutes. After it, ease of movement returns, muscle tension and pain disappear. Perceptible healing effect occurs within 2-3 visits.

People with physical inactivity are recommended to undergo a course of manual therapy 2-3 times a year for 6-10 sessions. If there are problems with the musculoskeletal system, 3 courses of 15-20 procedures are required. The interval between visits is 1-7 days.

Sometimes after the procedure the patient may experience pain in the treatment area. This is due to the fact that one muscle group begins to work more actively, while the other gets rid of increased tension. In general, severe pain should not occur during or after the procedure.

Benefits of Manual Therapy

This treatment method can be used in children, adults and the elderly (if there are no health restrictions).

A course of procedures from a chiropractor provides:

  • rapid restoration of mobility in articular joints;
  • reduction and disappearance of pain;
  • improved blood circulation;
  • relief from muscle tension;
  • restoration of the natural functioning of the entire body.

Using manual therapy techniques, a specialist brings all structures of the spinal column to their original position. This normalizes blood circulation and trophism of adjacent tissues that were previously spasmed or pinched. Releasing the nerve roots and endings relieves pain. Manual therapy also helps restore joint mobility and elasticity.

Without drugs or invasive procedures, the specialist is able to create conditions for natural tissue restoration, as well as eliminate deformations that led to discomfort and various pathologies.

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The operator processes applications from 9:00 to 21:00

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