manual therapy

[ucd]

Just out of curiosity, on average how often does a PT use manual therapy (using fingers and hand) on a patient in a given day? Does PT have a high burn out rate similar to massage therapist b/c of the constant use of their hands. thanks

 

[_FNG_]

Just out of curiosity, on average how often does a PT use manual therapy (using fingers and hand) on a patient in a given day? Does PT have a high burn out rate similar to massage therapist b/c of the constant use of their hands. thanks

I have heard of such things occuring but our faculty ensured we utilize good support to minimize wear and tear. I rarely do any massage, I'll sometimes do an effleurage to improve lymphatic drainage with extremities but other than that I never have days where my hands ache. Just like other movements, you should let your larger body parts be the force producers and let the smaller body parts transmit/stabilize it.

 

[MinnDasota]

Manual therapy is commonplace in all aspects of PT, although mostly in outpatient orthopedics. There are a ton of manual therapies utilized in PT and is not limited to soft tissue massage techniques. I use it a ton each day. In PT school, you are taught proper body mechanics to avoid overusing your hands and fingers.

 

[ucd]

thanks for the response! That's good to hear