What different techniques feel like
Joint mobilisation is a slow, rhythmic movement of a joint within its range and is usually comfortable, often relieving. Soft tissue release applies sustained pressure to tight muscle or fascia and can be intense, similar to deep tissue massage, particularly over trigger points. Stretching is felt as a pull. Manipulation is a quick, small thrust to a stiff joint, sometimes with an audible click; it is over in a moment and most people feel immediate ease. Nerve mobilisation produces a stretching or tingling sensation along the nerve path.
Discomfort versus pain
Some discomfort during treatment of a painful area is expected and is a sign the right structure is being treated. Sharp pain, pain that makes you tense up, or anything that does not settle when the technique stops is not expected, and you should say so. A good clinician checks in constantly and will change technique or pressure.
Afterwards
Mild soreness or a feeling like after exercise for a day or two is common after hands-on treatment, particularly early in a course. Some people feel tired. Occasionally symptoms flare briefly before improving. Persistent or worsening pain after treatment is not typical and should be reported.
If you are anxious about manipulation
You do not have to have it. Manipulation is one technique among many, and everything it achieves can usually be achieved more gradually with mobilisation. Tell your clinician if you would prefer not to be manipulated.
At Omnia
Manual therapy at our Chiswick clinic follows a full assessment, and techniques are chosen and adjusted to your comfort. Where acupuncture or red light therapy would ease a very sensitive area first, they are available in the same session.