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Manual Therapy in Burlington – Hands-On Physiotherapy at Cogent Rehab

What Is Manual Therapy?

Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment approach in physiotherapy that helps restore movement, reduce pain, and improve joint function. At Cogent Rehab in Burlington, our physiotherapists use joint mobilization, manipulation, and soft tissue techniques to improve how your spine and peripheral joints move. These techniques are designed to target stiffness, relieve tension, and support natural healing.

Why Is Manual Therapy Important In Physiotherapy?

Since the early days of physiotherapy, joint mobilization and manipulation have been key tools for treating movement restrictions. Today, manual therapy remains an evidence-based method to help patients overcome pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility.

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Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with arthritis, or experiencing back or neck pain, manual therapy can be an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan that combines exercise, education, and other therapies.

How Does Manual Therapy Work?

Manual therapy works by using skilled, hands-on techniques to gently move your joints, muscles, and soft tissues. The goal is to restore proper mobility, reduce stiffness, and decrease pain so your body can move more naturally.

 

At Cogent Rehab in Burlington, our physiotherapists use a step-by-step process, including:

  1. Assessment – Your physiotherapist carefully examines your movement, joint alignment, and areas of stiffness.

  2. Hands-On Treatment – Using techniques such as joint mobilization, manipulation, and soft tissue release, the therapist applies controlled pressure and movement to improve flexibility and reduce tension.

  3. Reassessment – Your response is checked immediately, and treatment is adjusted to make sure you are progressing safely.

 

Manual therapy also helps to:

  • Increase blood flow and circulation to healing tissues

  • Improve nerve mobility and reduce irritation

  • Restore balance to muscles and joints

  • Support long-term functional movement when combined with exercise

 

It is not a passive treatment — you and your physiotherapist work together to reduce pain, restore motion, and improve daily activity performance.

What Conditions Can Be Managed With Manual Therapy?

Manual therapy may benefit patients with:

  • Back and neck pain

  • Shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand pain

  • Hip, knee, ankle, or foot pain

  • Arthritis and joint stiffness

  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction

  • Post-surgical stiffness

  • Sports injuries

Benefits of Manual Therapy

  • Relieves pain and muscle tension

  • Restores joint mobility

  • Improves posture and movement patterns

  • Enhances recovery after injury or surgery

  • Supports long-term functional health

Discover Expert Manual Therapy Techniques in Burlington Today

Experience the benefits of expert manual therapy techniques at Cogent Rehab in Burlington. Our hands-on physiotherapy approach targets pain relief and mobility improvement, helping you recover faster and move better. Whether addressing joint stiffness or muscle tension, our tailored sessions blend manual therapy techniques with advanced care to achieve optimal results. Book an appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle.

 

Call us today at 905-635-4422 or Book Online to schedule your manual therapy session in Burlington.

FAQs About Manual Therapy

Q1. How is manual therapy different from massage?
While massage focuses on relaxation and muscle tension, manual therapy is a clinical treatment that targets restricted joints, stiff muscles, or nerve tension. It’s used to restore mobility and improve function, often as part of a physiotherapy plan.

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Q2. Does manual therapy hurt?
You may feel mild discomfort during treatment, especially if tissues are stiff or sensitive. However, manual therapy should never be painful. Your physiotherapist will always adjust techniques to your comfort level.

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Q3. How quickly will I see results from manual therapy?
Many patients feel immediate relief in stiffness and mobility after a session, while others may notice gradual improvements over several treatments. Long-term results are best when combined with exercise therapy.

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Q4. Is manual therapy safe for everyone?
Yes, manual therapy is safe when provided by a licensed physiotherapist. Your therapist will complete a thorough assessment to ensure techniques are appropriate for your age, condition, and health history.

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Q5. Do you combine manual therapy with other treatments?
Yes. At Cogent Rehab Burlington, manual therapy is often paired with exercise rehabilitation, education, and modalities like  IFC, or deep oscillation therapy to maximize results.

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Q6. How many manual therapy sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on your condition and goals. Some patients improve within 2–3 visits, while others may benefit from ongoing sessions integrated into a broader physiotherapy program.

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Q7. Is manual therapy covered by insurance?
Yes. Since manual therapy is part of physiotherapy treatment, it is typically covered under extended health benefits and direct billing plans.

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Q8. Can manual therapy help prevent injuries?
Absolutely. By improving joint mobility, posture, and muscle balance, manual therapy can indirectly help reduce strain on the body and lower your risk of future injuries.

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