Skip to main content

Spinal & Joint Manipulation

What Is Spinal & Joint Manipulation?

Spinal & Joint Manipulation is a specialized form of manual therapy that uses precise, controlled movements to improve how your joints move and feel. Depending on your needs, this may include gentle mobilizations or faster, small-amplitude thrusts that sometimes create a painless “popping” sound.

These techniques are used to:

  • Reduce pain and muscle guarding
  • Improve joint mobility and alignment
  • Decrease stiffness and tightness
  • Restore normal movement patterns
  • Enhance overall function and posture

Your therapist always explains what they’re doing, why they’re doing it, and makes sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.

Conditions Spinal & Joint Manipulation Helps Treat

By addressing restrictions in the spine and other joints, spinal & joint manipulation can be an effective part of treatment for many common conditions, including:

  • Neck and back pain
  • Sciatica and radiating leg pain
  • Headaches related to neck or upper back tension
  • Shoulder, hip, and knee pain from joint stiffness
  • Rib and mid-back pain
  • Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction
  • Arthritis-related stiffness
  • Sports or work-related joint pain and movement restrictions

What to Expect

At Farmington Physical Therapy, your spinal & joint manipulation sessions are safe, individualized, and clearly explained so you always know what to expect.

1

A Warm, Welcoming First Visit

You’ll be greeted by our friendly team and guided through a simple check-in. Your therapist will review your medical history, symptoms, and goals, and answer any questions you may have about spinal or joint manipulation.
2

Comprehensive Evaluation

We perform a detailed exam to identify which joints are stiff, painful, or not moving well. This may include posture assessment, movement testing, special orthopedic tests, and gentle palpation of your spine and other joints.
3

Personalized Treatment Plan

Based on your evaluation, we create a plan that may include spinal & joint manipulation, gentle mobilization, soft tissue work, and specific exercises. Your plan is tailored to your comfort level, medical history, and activity goals.
4

Hands-On Spinal & Joint Manipulation

When appropriate, your therapist will use precise, controlled techniques to target specific joints. You’ll be positioned comfortably, and the technique is applied quickly but safely—often with immediate relief in motion or stiffness. We never perform a manipulation without your consent and full understanding.
5

Ongoing Support & Home Strategies

We pair hands-on care with exercises, posture education, and activity modifications to help your improvements last. Your therapist will monitor your progress, adjust your plan as needed, and support you in getting back to the activities that matter most.
At Farmington Physical Therapy, your health is personal. Our team is here to help you move with confidence, recover with purpose, and live life to the fullest.

We begin with a comprehensive evaluation, develop a personalized plan, and walk with you every step of the way toward recovery.