This is because the different expertise of our therapists allows us to tackle the cause of your complaints in an even more targeted manner instead of focusing on the consequences.
If you have pain, difficulty moving or other physical discomfort, a specialized therapist can help you reduce and/or resolve your complaints. But who is the best person to contact with your specific complaint? with a physiotherapist or a manual therapist? We explain the differences to you here.
The difference between manual and physiotherapy
Manual therapy literally means therapy that uses the hands. A manual therapist is basically trained as a physiotherapist, after which he or she has completed further specialist training. This specialization means that the therapist is qualified to manipulate joints. During manipulation, a short movement, also called an impulse, is given in a controlled manner and at a measured speed, which cannot be stopped. This often causes a snapping or cracking sound. The movement gives a strange feeling but is not painful.
Manual therapy focuses mainly on manipulation of complaints caused by postural problems, whereby not only the moment at which the complaint arose is taken into account, but the person is seen as a whole. Pain in the neck, the joints in the (lower) back or in the hip can have its origins much earlier, for example due to an incorrect (work) posture or stress. If treatment of the complaints is not effective through manipulation, the complaints will be treated by a physiotherapist. This includes sports injuries and rehabilitation, but also guidance for COPD and claudication.
Which therapist will you see?
If you come to our practice for the treatment of your complaints, which you can do without a referral from your GP, you will always first have an intake interview. We will then map out your complaints and discuss with you how your complaints can best be treated. Based on this we determine which therapist will help you. This can be a physiotherapist or a manual therapist and in some cases also a combination of both.
The reimbursement for both physiotherapy and manual therapy depends on how you are insured. Always consult your health insurance in advance so that you are not faced with unpleasant surprises.