I saw a physical therapist for a problem in my neck. He asked if he could do a neck manipulation on me. What kind of training is needed for therapists to do this treatment?

There is no set standard for clinical practice in this area. Many therapists learn this skill as part of the standard physical therapy training. They practice it under the supervision of a more experienced clinical instructor. Others take courses later after graduating.

There are specialty programs that lead to certification in manual therapy. These are not required or mandatory before a therapist can use manipulation.

Clinical coordinators from university PT programs were surveyed about this issue. They said one or more of the following was needed to qualify as a manual therapy training instructor:

  • Regular practice with patients in orthopedics
  • Attend continuing education program (with or without certification)
  • Complete a manual therapy residency or fellowship program
  • Hold an orthopedic certified specialty (OCS) from the American Physical Therapy Association
  • Complete a clinic sponsored competency process for manual therapy

    None of these are required at the present time. If you have any doubts or questions, don't hesitate to ask your therapist about his training.

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