Manual Therapy techniques are skilled hand movements intended to improve tissue extensibility; increase range of motion; induce relaxation; mobilize or manipulate soft tissue and joints; modulate pain; and reduce soft tissue swelling, inflammation, or restriction. Procedures may include manual traction, massage, joint mobilization/manipulation, and passive range of motion.

Physical therapists select, prescribe, and implement manual techniques when the examination findings, diagnosis, and prognosis indicate use of manual therapy to decrease edema or swelling; decrease pain or spasm; enhance health, wellness or fitness; enhance or maintain physical performance; increase the ability to move; prevent or remediate impairments, functional limitations, or disabilities; and to improve physical performance.

 from the APTA Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, 2003