DEUTSCH | ITALIANO   

The Maitland Concept of manual therapy is a form of physiotherapy carried out by specially trained and highly qualified physiotherapists. It is a therapy with a specific approach involving detailed examination, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions which cause pain and movement problems.

As is clearly implied by the term ‘manual therapy’ this is a ‘hands on’ treatment. Back problems, for example, can be precisely identified and the joints of the spine specifically mobilized and treated. This type of therapy is also very effective in the treatment of other joints. Hip, knee and shoulder problems can, for example, be treated to reduce pain and improve movement and function.

Manual Therapy can be effective in the treatment of:

• Back pain and disc problems.
• Neck pain and sinal problems of the neck region.
• Arthritis – pain and stiffness for example of the hips, knees and back.
• Facial pain, headaches and jaw pain.
• Nerve irritation causing for example numbness or tingling in the fingers or sciatica.
• Knee pain caused by for example ligament and meniscus problems.
• Elbow problems such as Tennis or Golfers elbow.
• Problems in the wrist and hand for example broken bones, carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains and strains.
• Foot and ankle problems for example ligament and tendon tears.

Manual Therapy is also helpful following surgery or sports injuries. In the work situation and for individual types of sport the Manual Therapist is able to analyze your movement system and give advice concerning appropriate measures which can be taken in order to reduce the risk of strain or injury.

The first part of the therapy always begins with a detailed interview about the present problem and how it effects your daily life The description of the problem from the your perspective is very important to the therapist. A thorough physical examination will follow to identify the cause of the problem. In the case of a shoulder problem, for example, the neck, ribs and thorax may also need to be examined to pinpoint the exact nature of the problem.
Each patient is different, with his own varying problems. The examination and tests needed are therefore also individually tailored to each patient.
 

The findings from the interview, tests and examinations are the basis for the treatment that follows. The movement problem identified will be treated with the most appropriate treatment method.

Methods include e.g:

• Manual joint mobilization.
• Techniques to improve the mobility and function of neural tissue.
• Stretching and/or strengthening of muscle.
• Explanation of the mechanisms of the problem and advice to help ensure the long term success of your treatment.
• Training in posture and everyday movements and preferred sports.
• Exercises and advice to promote self management.
   

Throughout the therapy the physiotherapist will continually monitor the progress made to make certain that the most effective methods are used to bring about an improvement as quickly as possible.

We make every effort to expand on our experience and to integrate new advances in research into our treatment in order to provide you with an individual, effective treatment.