General Discussion - Manipulation of body parts

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Manipulation of body parts

Printed From: CyberPT - Your Online Physical Therapy Resource
Category: Patient Forum
Forum Name: General Discussion
Forum Description: Patients can post questions and experiences about physical therapy in general for discussion.
URL: http://www.cyberpt.com/ptforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=836
Printed Date: Nov 23 2024 at 10:31am
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Topic: Manipulation of body parts

Posted By: Ask a PT
Subject: Manipulation of body parts
Date Posted: Mar 29 2011 at 12:45pm

Our user asked: "I was born with some abnormalities. My arms have never straightened out all the way. The entire right side of my body is less flexible than my left. I have scoliosis and I have had a surgical manipulation done to straighten my spine where they inserted a long metal rod from my thoracic spine to my cervical spine and a rod across my hips to prevent abnormal movement. I know I will never be able to arch my back due to the rods. I am now 30 years old and would like to flexible in my arms and legs and waist. Is it possible to manipulate body parts in regard to flexibility? Is it possible, after 30 years, to straighten out my arms and my legs by stretching and manipulation without having any type of surgery done?"

Ask a PT Response: "Manipulation of your body parts will most likely not help you achieve more flexibility especially since you mention your joints have been like this for so long. Given your condition, your muscles, tendons, ligaments, etc would benefit more from static stretching over time to facilitate an increase in flexibility and range of motion rather than manipulation. I would recommend you talk to your MD or PT and express your concerns as they would be best equipped to help you. I wish you the best of luck."