Manipulation

Manipulation is a process or action that involves managing or controlling something or someone, often in a skillful manner. In the context of medicine, manipulation can refer to a variety of techniques used by healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat illness or injury.

Types of Manipulation in Medicine

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is a type of manipulation used by osteopathic physicians to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. This technique involves using the hands to move a patient's muscles and joints using techniques that include stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance.

Chiropractic Adjustment

Chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a technique used by chiropractors to treat conditions related to the body's structure. This technique involves applying a controlled, sudden force to a specific joint.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists also use manipulation techniques to treat patients. These techniques can include massage, stretching, and joint mobilization.

Risks and Benefits

Like any medical treatment, manipulation has potential risks and benefits. The benefits can include pain relief, improved range of motion, and improved function. Risks can include discomfort during the procedure, injury to the area being treated, and in rare cases, serious complications such as stroke.

See Also

• Osteopathy
• Chiropractic
• Physical Therapy