Upper East Side Physical Therapy

Manual Therapy & Hands-On-Treatment

Skilled Hands. Lasting Relief. Faster Recovery.

At ESR Physical Therapy in the Upper East Side of New York City, we believe in the power of hands-on care. Our expert physical therapists use advanced manual therapy techniques to reduce pain, restore mobility, and accelerate healing—without the need for medications or surgery.

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or trying to improve performance, manual therapy offers a personalized, proven approach to help your body heal and function at its best.

What Is Manual Therapy?

Manual therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that involves the skilled use of hands to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal dysfunction. Unlike general massage or passive modalities, manual therapy is targeted and technique-driven, with the goal of improving mobility, relieving pain, and correcting underlying issues.

Conditions We Treat with Manual Therapy

Manual therapy can be an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Back and neck pain

  • Joint stiffness or arthritis

  • Muscle tension and spasms

  • Shoulder, hip, and knee pain

  • TMJ dysfunction (jaw pain)

  • Post-surgical scar tissue and tightness

  • Sports injuries and overuse syndromes

  • Sciatica and nerve impingement

  • Poor posture and movement dysfunction

Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing everyday aches, manual therapy can support your recovery.

Andrea with Patient

Manual Therapy Techniques We Use

At ESR Physical Therapy, your manual therapy sessions are fully customized and may include:

  • Joint mobilization to improve range of motion and reduce stiffness

  • Soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release to relieve muscle tightness and improve circulation

  • Trigger point therapy to address muscle knots and referred pain

  • Manual stretching to restore flexibility and prevent injury

  • Scar tissue mobilization to improve healing post-surgery or trauma

  • Passive range-of-motion techniques to support joint health in early-stage rehab

These techniques are often combined with corrective exercise, posture training, and education to ensure long-term results.

Andrea with Patient

Why Choose ESR Physical Therapy for Hands-On Treatment?

  • Trusted NYC Physical Therapy Clinic with over 20 years of experience in the Upper East Side
  • Experienced, licensed therapists trained in advanced manual techniques

  • One-on-one, hands-on care in every session

  • Convenient NYC location in the Upper East Side with flexible scheduling

  • Individualized plans focused on real, lasting results

  • Clear communication and education every step of the way

We don’t believe in cookie-cutter programs. At ESR Physical Therapy, your care is personal, precise, and results-driven.

Feel the Difference of Expert Hands-On Care

Ready to reduce pain and move more freely? Discover how skilled manual therapy can unlock your body’s full potential.