Mobilization via manual therapy

Manual therapy offers one possibility to get a grip on the limited mobility of the cervical spine and the pain. It aims to use the hands to reduce muscle tension and restore mobility, helping the patient to move more freely without pain. In general, manual therapy is used to correct functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

However, it is also used as a diagnostic procedure, as the performing therapist uses his hands to feel the cause of the problem and can thus obtain a uniform impression of the patient’s individual condition. In general, one can distinguish between two main types of manual therapy: Mobilization and manipulation: Here, targeted movements of various speed (fast or slow), force (gentle or powerful) and length are applied to bring bones and joints back into the correct position. This can also help to loosen stiff tissue around the joints and reduce pain.

If there are problems with the cervical spine, a so-called extension procedure can provide relief under certain circumstances. In this procedure, the therapist exerts traction on the patient’s body by means of specific movements, which stretches and relieves the cervical spine. The sling table works according to the same principle.

For more information about manual therapy, please refer to the article Manual Therapy.

Work on the soft tissues: This means that by applying pressure (e.g. massage) to the soft tissues of the body such as muscles and connective tissue, the therapist releases tension, relieves pain and restores flexibility.
Mobilization and manipulation: This involves targeted movements of varying speed (fast or slow), force (gentle or powerful) and length to bring bones and joints back into the correct position. This can also help to loosen stiff tissue around the joints and reduce pain.

Applications from the physiotherapy

A physiotherapeutic treatment of the cervical spine can also help to eliminate the problems and contribute to long-term prevention. There is a long list of physiotherapeutic exercises and techniques to strengthen and mobilize the area around the cervical spine. The therapy options include among others: The exercises are aimed at improving posture, restoring flexibility and, of course, relieving pain and preventing chronic development.

It is important that patients first perform the exercises under supervision so that the therapist can be sure that they are performed correctly and are adapted to the individual condition of the cervical spine. It should be avoided to make a self-diagnosis, because the wrong exercises or a wrong execution can even aggravate the symptoms. These topics may also be of interest to you:

Cold or hot applications
Massage of the deep tissue
Electrical stimulation
Ultrasound
Taping and Kinesiology
Strengthening and stretching exercises that can be performed under supervision and then comfortably by the patient at home.

Physiotherapy for a cervical spine syndrome
Physiotherapy exercises for the neck
Neck pain – help from physiotherapy
Physiotherapy for a torticollis