The Decline of Manual Therapy in NHS Physiotherapy: A Critical Analysis

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the therapeutic approach used by National Health Service (NHS) physiotherapists in the UK, with a significant focus on exercise therapy and prescribed exercises, while manual therapy has largely fallen out of favour. While this approach aligns with current guidelines promoting self-management and cost-effectiveness, it may not always serve the best interests of patients, particularly given the frequent reliance on phone consultations without physical examinations. This article examines the reasons for this trend and its implications, backed by peer-reviewed evidence.

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