Systemic Manual Therapy

Systemic manual therapy is a treatment approach developed by us over a period of more than 20 years and includes many of the techniques used in fascial and traditional Counterstrain, integrative manual therapy, Barral and muscle energy techniques. The key difference is that the techniques are performed within a set of distinct protocols and protocol sequences. There are two theoretical benefits for this approach: By standardizing the treatment we can systematically evaluate the effects of intervention for number of conditions or complaints, and as such, develop a validated and comprehensive treatment strategy for many complex conditions. The second benefit is that by standardizing the treatment approach, a novice clinician such as a doctoral physical therapy intern can be taught this approach in a much more organized and efficient manner.

Fascial Counterstrain

This innovative approach for the treatment of neuromuscular and musculo-skeletal disorders was developed initially by Lawrence Jones and was initially termed strain counter strain. This method was later expanded by Brian Tuckey to include multiple systems in the body and is now referred to as fascial counterstrain. this approach is based on applying controlled compression to skeletal muscles allowing the muscles to relax.

Integrative Manual Therapy

Developed by Sharon Giammatteo PT, PhD I.M.T,C Integrative Manual Therapy (IMT) is a unique compilation of diagnostic and treatment methodologies that assess and treat pain, dysfunction, disease and disability.

Barral Techniques

Developed by French Osteopath and Physical Therapist Jean-Pierre Barral, the Barral Methods offer a number treatment approaches for visceral neural, vascular and articular manipulation.

Muscle Energy Techniques

Muscle Energy Techniques (METs) are a broad classification of Manual Therapy Techniques directed at improving musculoskeletal function, and improving pain. METs are commonly used by Manual Therapists, Osteopaths, Physical Therapists, Chiropractors, Athletic Trainers, Osteopathic Physicians, and Massage Therapists. Historically, the concept emerged as a form of osteopathic manipulative diagnosis and treatment in which the patient’s muscles are actively used on request, from a precisely controlled position, in a specific direction, and against a distinctly executed physician counterforce. It was first described in 1948 by Fred Mitchell, Sr, D.O. Muscle energy techniques are used to treat somatic dysfunction, especially decreased range of motion, muscular hypertonicity, and pain.

Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation is a therapeutic intervention performed on spinal articulations which are synovial joints. These articulations in the spine that are amenable to spinal manipulative therapy include the z-joints, the atlanto-occipital, atlanto-axial, lumbosacral, sacroiliac, costotransverse and costovertebral joints. National guidelines come to different conclusions with respect to spinal manipulation. Some not recommending it, some describing manipulation as optional, and others recommending a short course for those who do not improve with other treatments.

Neuromuscular Retraining

Neuromuscular retraining represents a number of therapeutic approaches that allow the patient to retrain aberrant movement or mobility patterns.