Manual Therapy – How Hands-On Care Helps Chronic Pain and Injuries
- drmasonmorris
- Oct 30
- 2 min read
Introduction
When people think of chiropractic care, they often picture spinal adjustments. But adjustments are only part of the picture. Manual therapy—hands-on treatment that targets muscles, tendons, and soft tissues—plays a vital role in helping patients recover from chronic pain and injuries.
At Strive Chiropractic, we combine advanced manual therapy techniques like Active Release Technique and Graston Therapy with chiropractic adjustments for a truly comprehensive approach to care.
Why Manual Therapy Matters
Chronic pain often isn’t just about the joints—it’s also about the soft tissues around them. Tight muscles, scar tissue, and restricted fascia can all contribute to pain and stiffness. Manual therapy works directly on these problem areas to:
Reduce muscle tension
Break up scar tissue and adhesions
Improve circulation and healing
Restore natural movement
When combined with chiropractic adjustments, it creates long-lasting relief and better overall function.
Active Release Technique (ART)
ART focuses on breaking down scar tissue and adhesions within muscles and tendons. By applying pressure while guiding you through specific movements, ART restores mobility and relieves nerve irritation. It’s especially effective for conditions like sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and shoulder impingement.
Graston Technique (IASTM)
Graston therapy uses specialized instruments to detect and treat scar tissue and chronic restrictions. This method improves circulation, reduces pain, and speeds recovery—making it a favorite among athletes and anyone dealing with repetitive strain injuries.
Conditions Helped by Manual Therapy
Manual therapy can help with a wide variety of issues, including:
Chronic back and neck pain
Sports injuries
Repetitive strain injuries
Plantar fasciitis and shin splints
Post-surgical scar tissue restrictions
What to Expect at Strive Chiropractic
Every patient is unique, so we tailor manual therapy to your specific needs. Some patients may benefit most from ART, others from Graston, and many from a combination of both along with chiropractic adjustments.
Our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and recover faster.
Final Thoughts
Manual therapy is more than just a massage—it’s a powerful, hands-on approach that addresses the root causes of pain and restricted movement. At Strive Chiropractic, we specialize in advanced techniques like ART and Graston to deliver real, lasting results.
📞 Call today to schedule your visit and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free life.




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