manipulative surgery

In orthopaedics, manual treatment of affected joints, without the use of instruments. It includes massage, but is more usually applied to special manipulation of the joints. It is often confused with osteopathy, which is a separate treatment discipline. Manipulative treatment is a recognized branch of orthopaedic surgery. It is used to treat conditions such as adhesions of muscles and tendons to their sheaths; certain forms of dislocation; and the wedging of a synovial membrane between two bones. A tuberculous joint should never be treated by manipulation, and any condition should be carefully diagnosed before any treatment is applied. An anaesthetic is usually administered to ensure the complete relaxation of the muscles.