Hands-on care
Manual Therapy
Manual therapy is hands-on care selected after evaluation to support mobility, flexibility, range of motion, pain, and swelling as part of a broader physical therapy plan. Available at Montebello and Encino. Call (323) 246-4616. Open Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Quick answer: Manual therapy is hands-on care selected after evaluation to support mobility, flexibility, range of motion, pain, and swelling as part of a broader physical therapy plan. Available at Montebello and Encino. Call (323) 246-4616. Open Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
What manual therapy is (and is not)
Manual therapy is hands-on care provided by a licensed physical therapist in response to what an evaluation reveals. It is one part of a physical therapy plan that also uses exercise, education, and home strategies.
Manual therapy is not a standalone "massage appointment." It is selected for a functional goal and individualized to your needs. Techniques are chosen based on your movement limitations, tissue characteristics, and stage of recovery.
Techniques that may be used
Techniques are selected for the individual and the goals of the treatment plan. Your physical therapist will explain which techniques are appropriate for you and why they may be helpful.
Soft tissue mobilization
Hands-on techniques applied to muscles and connective tissue to support mobility and tissue function.
Joint mobilization
Controlled movement applied to joints to support range of motion and joint mechanics.
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization
Use of specialized tools to support tissue mobility and flexibility.
Manual stretching
Therapist-assisted stretching to support flexibility and movement.
Edema massage
Techniques to support circulation and manage swelling.
Scar mobilization
Hands-on work to support mobility of scar tissue after injury or surgery.
When it may be part of care
Manual therapy may be selected when evaluation reveals limitations in joint movement, tissue flexibility, or range of motion. It may support concerns such as back pain, neck pain, knee pain, or shoulder pain when appropriate.
It may also be used when pain or swelling limits function, or when mobility of tissue or joints needs support during recovery. Your physical therapist will discuss whether hands-on care fits your goals and current stage of care.
Manual therapy may support
- Joint mobility
- Tissue flexibility
- Range of motion
- Pain management
- Swelling reduction
- Scar tissue mobility
How it fits a visit
Manual therapy is never the first step. Before any hands-on care, your physical therapist will conduct an evaluation to understand your history, movement patterns, and functional goals. If manual therapy is appropriate, your therapist will explain what techniques may be used and ask for your consent.
During a visit, manual therapy is often combined with therapeutic exercise and education. Your comfort is important. You can ask questions at any time, and your therapist will adjust the plan based on how you respond.
- Evaluation comes first—hands-on care is selected based on findings
- Consent and comfort are discussed before beginning
- Often combined with therapeutic exercise and home strategies
- Techniques are adjusted based on how your body responds
For more on exercise-based care, see: Therapeutic exercise.
Available at both clinics
Manual therapy is available at both our Montebello and Encino clinics. Both locations share the same phone number and hours.
Related reading
Manual therapy is often part of care for musculoskeletal concerns such as back pain and neck pain. Learn more about how physical therapy may support these conditions.
Frequently asked questions
- Is manual therapy the same as massage?
- Manual therapy is hands-on care provided by a licensed physical therapist as part of a rehabilitation plan. It is selected after evaluation to address specific functional goals, movement limitations, or tissue concerns. Unlike a standalone massage appointment, manual therapy is typically combined with therapeutic exercise, education, and home strategies as part of a broader physical therapy program.
- Will every visit include hands-on care?
- Not necessarily. Whether manual therapy is used during a visit depends on your evaluation findings, current stage of recovery, and treatment goals. Some visits may focus more on exercise or education. Your physical therapist will discuss the plan and adjust techniques as your care progresses.
- Is manual therapy available at both clinic locations?
- Yes. Manual therapy is available at both our Montebello clinic (433 N. 4th St., Unit 208) and our Encino clinic (16240 Ventura Blvd, Suite 210). Both locations share (323) 246-4616 and the same weekday hours.
- Do I need a referral for physical therapy that includes manual therapy?
- Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan and how you are accessing care. Some plans allow direct access to physical therapy, while others require a physician referral or authorization. Call the clinic with your insurance information so we can help you understand what may be needed before your first visit.
Ready to move forward?
Let’s talk about what matters to you.
Call the clinic or send an appointment request. We’ll help you take the next step.