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Physiotherapy vocabulary · Manual Therapy and Hands-On Treatment

Manipulation

Meaning in physiotherapy, with examples

/məˌnɪpjəˈleɪʃən/nounAdvanced term

In physiotherapy, manipulation means: A manual therapy technique in which a quick, small thrust is applied to a joint, often producing a popping or clicking sound.

In Turkish: manipülasyon

How it is used

Also called a high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust, or grade V in the Maitland system. Physiotherapists need extra training to manipulate the spine and must screen for contraindications first. Patients may call it 'cracking' their back; the sound comes from gas in the joint fluid, not a bone going back into place.

Example sentences

  1. I'd like to try a thoracic manipulation; you might hear a click.

  2. Manipulation is not suitable for everyone, so we'll do some checks first.

Common collocations

  • spinal manipulation
  • thrust manipulation
  • perform a manipulation
  • HVLA thrust
  • joint mobilisationA manual therapy technique in which the physiotherapist moves a joint slowly and repeatedly, within or towards the limit of its range, to reduce pain or stiffness.
  • manual therapyTreatment in which the physiotherapist uses their hands to move joints, apply pressure or work on muscles and other soft tissues.
  • contraindicationA medical reason why a particular treatment should not be used for a patient, because it could cause harm.
  • end feelThe quality of resistance the physiotherapist feels at the very end of a joint's passive movement, described as hard, firm, soft or empty.

More terms: Manual Therapy and Hands-On Treatment

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.