Manual therapy is used to treat functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system. It is used to identify muscular imbalances and the associated movement restrictions and pain and to treat them using special techniques.

Manual therapy always begins with a discussion with the patient and a manual assessment. Movement restrictions and blockages are identified and fascial and muscle tension is palpated. Treatment is carried out with the hands. Traction, mobilisation and manipulation are used to release blockages, relax muscles and restore balance to the musculoskeletal system. With traction techniques, the joint partners are separated by gentle but constant traction and cartilage, ligaments and joint capsules are relieved and better supplied with blood. Joint mobilisation involves gently moving joints, particularly in the restricted direction of movement. Blockages are released by a quick impulse in the sense of manipulation. Relaxation techniques to reduce muscle tension are also part of manual therapy. On the other hand, these techniques are also part of osteopathy and can therefore be combined well with deep tissue massage therapy, for example. Fascia therapy of the connective tissue or trigger point therapy of the muscles often complete the treatment