“There is NO skill in manual therapy, and it really doesn’t matter how you do it.” FALSE. Patient preference, expert opinion, published research trials, all refute this concept.
“Lastly but most importantly, all manual therapist needs skill in interaction! Being able to connect, relax, reassure and calm people is a ‘skill’ not to be taken for granted. It’s this skill combined with simple, confident, comfortable handling skills that I truly believe distinguishes a great manual therapist from a good one.” VERY TRUE
Not trying to be too blunt, but that’s how I feel about that post and what I think it’s worth. There is simply no mistaking it that there is indeed significant skill in selecting and performing manual techniques for the specific patient in front of me. I have made people worse and made people better, and have watched others do the same, on the basis of their manual therapy skill (again, selection and application of technique).
Nevertheless, the point is well received that INTERACTION with the patient is absolutely critical, and not to be taken for granted. I would guess that even upwards of 50% or more of the success of my manual therapy is owing to the “therapeutic alliance” or whatever you want to call it that is developed as I work with and interact with the patient.
But, to repeat myself, I think it is a case of both/and not either/or. Great therapist are skilled at BOTH selection/application techniques AND interacting with patients in a manner that makes them feel relaxed/cared for/reassured, etc…
– The Resident Physio