Manual therapy

Manual therapy is a part of physiotherapy that uses hands-on techniques along with active rehabilitation to relieve pain and improve the mobility of joints and soft tissues. It is used for selected musculoskeletal problems as part of an individual treatment plan.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Andreas Abel

General practitioner

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Back pain (lower, mid, and neck pain)
  • Headaches and migraines related to neck tension
  • Joint pain (shoulder, hip, knee, elbow pain)
  • Muscle tension and pain
  • Joint stiffness and limited movement
  • Posture problems
  • Sports injuries (e.g., muscle strains, tendon inflammation)
  • Nerve pain (e.g., sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome)
  • Post-operative recovery (restoring joint mobility)
  • Chronic pain syndromes

Common symptoms

  • Chronic headaches

    Especially if they are related to neck or shoulder tension.
  • Joint stiffness

    If joint movement is restricted or painful.
  • Limited movement

    If moving your joints is painful or restricted.
  • Muscle tension

    If you feel constant tension in your neck, shoulders, or back.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring your ID card or another form of identification.
  • Write down your main symptoms, when they started, and how long they have lasted.
  • Make a list of all medications and food supplements you are taking.
  • Ensure that the results of your previous examinations (e.g., X-rays, MRI scans, blood tests) can be found in the Health Portal, or bring the results with you to the appointment.
  • If possible, bring your training diary so the doctor can get an overview of your physical activity.
  • Think about any questions you want to ask the doctor.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows you to easily expose the area to be examined.

What to expect during your appointment

Discussion

We will ask you about your health problems, medical history, and lifestyle.

Physical examination

We will perform a thorough physical examination, assessing your posture, joint mobility, muscle strength, and the area of pain.

Evaluation of tests

Previous examinations and treatments will be reviewed.

Diagnosis

We use specific tests to identify the source and extent of the problem.

Treatment

We use various hands-on techniques, such as mobilization, manipulation, massage, and stretching, to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve joint mobility.

Counseling

We will give you advice on exercises, posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle to support your recovery and prevent the problem from recurring.

Follow-up

If necessary, we will schedule a follow-up appointment to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and monitor your recovery.

Specialists providing this service

Payment & Appointment Info

Prices

Tallinn

Special care
Service Price
Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. 20 €
Manual therapy 83 € A visit fee is added to the price.

Everywhere else in Estonia

This service is not available in selected area

This service is only available in Tallinn. You need to select Tallinn to see a price for this service.

Payment methods

With a doctor’s referral, Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Rehabilitation coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Who is this appointment for?

Manual therapy is for adults who have musculoskeletal pain, joint stiffness, or limited movement.

Manual therapy is not suitable for everyone. Certain health conditions (e.g., acute inflammation, fractures, tumors) may be contraindications.

No referral is needed – you can book a paid appointment on your own initiative, but the therapist will assess if manual therapy is suitable for you.

Manual therapy is safe when performed by a qualified and experienced therapist.

The service does not replace emergency medical intervention for acute and life-threatening conditions.

Clinics offering this service

Frequently Asked Questions

What is manual therapy?

Manual therapy is a special branch of physiotherapy that uses hands-on techniques to relieve musculoskeletal pain, improve joint mobility, and restore function.

Is manual therapy painful?

Manual therapy procedures may cause discomfort or a feeling of pressure, but they should not be unbearably painful. The therapist’s goal is to relieve pain, not cause it.

How long does a manual therapy session last?

A manual therapy appointment at Meliva lasts up to 30 minutes.

Do I need a referral for manual therapy?

A referral is not needed for a paid manual therapy visit, but the therapist will assess if the treatment is suitable for you.