Spinal & PeripheralManipulation in New Braunfels, TX

Back and neck pain can significantly limit daily activity, work performance, and overall quality of life. At Webb Physical Therapy Specialists, spinal manipulation is provided by licensed physical therapists as part of an evidence-based orthopedic physical therapy program designed to restore joint mobility, reduce pain, and improve movement efficiency.

Spinal manipulation uses precise, controlled manual techniques to address restricted spinal joints and related neuromuscular dysfunction caused by injury, postural strain, or degenerative changes.

Precision Care for Spinal Dysfunction

The spine is a complex system of joints, muscles, ligaments, and nerves that protects the spinal cord while allowing movement throughout the body. Each region plays a specific role in mobility and load transfer:

• Cervical spine – Neck movement and head control
• Thoracic spine – Trunk rotation and posture
• Lumbar spine – Low back mobility and load absorption
• Sacroiliac joints – Force transfer between the spine and hips

When spinal joints lose normal mobility, surrounding tissues compensate. Over time, this can contribute to symptoms such as:

• Localized or radiating pain
• Stiffness and restricted movement
• Muscle spasms or guarding
• Inflammation
• Numbness or tingling
• 
  

Spinal manipulation applies targeted mechanical input to joints that are restricted, helping restore motion, reduce nerve irritation, release muscle tension, and improve overall movement quality.

Common Causes of Spinal Joint Dysfunction

Several factors can contribute to spinal mobility loss and pain, including:

Poor Posture

Prolonged sitting, forward head posture, and rounded shoulders increase stress on spinal structures and alter joint mechanics.

Accidents and Injuries

Falls, motor vehicle accidents, and sports injuries can disrupt normal joint motion and irritate surrounding nerves.

Muscular Imbalances

Weakness or overactivity in stabilizing muscles can create abnormal forces across spinal joints, leading to pain and stiffness.

Degenerative Changes

Age-related disc changes or joint degeneration can reduce joint space and contribute to nerve irritation and movement restriction.

Individualized Spinal Manipulation Treatment

At Webb Physical Therapy Specialists, spinal manipulation is never applied generically. Treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation and is tailored to your specific findings and goals.

Your plan may include:

• Comprehensive Assessment
  Postural analysis, movement testing, and joint mobility assessment to identify restricted segments.
• Targeted Spinal Manipulation
  Low-force, precise techniques applied only to appropriate joints while avoiding hypermobile areas.
• Manual Therapy & Mobility Work
  Soft tissue techniques and stretching to address muscular contributors to pain.
• Therapeutic Exercise
  Progressive strengthening and mobility exercises to reinforce restored joint motion.
• Patient Education
• 
  Guidance on posture, movement strategies, and activity modification to support long-term results.

Our goal is not short-term symptom relief, but lasting improvement in spinal function and movement efficiency.

Benefits of Spinal Manipulation Physical Therapy

Targeted Pain Reduction

Restoring joint mobility can reduce pain driven by mechanical restriction and nerve irritation.

Improved Mobility and Flexibility

Improved spinal motion supports easier movement during daily activities such as turning, bending, and reaching.

Enhanced Neuromuscular Function

Normal joint motion supports more efficient communication between the nervous system and musculoskeletal structures.

Non-Invasive Treatment Option

Spinal manipulation is a conservative, non-surgical approach that may help reduce reliance on medications or injections.

Spinal Manipulation Physical Therapy FAQs

Is spinal manipulation safe when performed by a physical therapist?
Yes. Licensed physical therapists are trained to screen for appropriateness and apply manipulation safely.

Is spinal manipulation the same as chiropractic adjustment?
While techniques may appear similar, physical therapists integrate manipulation into a broader rehabilitation plan focused on movement and function.

Will I need manipulation every visit?
No. Manipulation is used only when indicated and supported by exercise and movement training.