Orthomanual therapy
Orthomanual therapy focuses on detecting and correcting postural and movement disorders in the spine and joints. When joints are not properly aligned or do not move correctly relative to one another, it can cause pain, stiffness, or radiating symptoms.
Have you been suffering from back, neck, or shoulder complaints for a long time? And do you notice that previous treatments mainly provide temporary relief? If so, the cause may not lie solely in the muscles, but in the alignment of your spine or pelvis.
- Focused on the cause, not just symptom management
- Specialist in long-term back and neck complaints
- Partially reimbursed by your insurer
MSK Centrum scores
an average of 9 out of 10.








What is orthomanual therapy?
Orthomanual therapy is a medical method in which the alignment of the spine and pelvis is central. The starting point is that the body can function properly when joints are in the correct position relative to each other.
Within this method, a careful examination is conducted to see how the vertebrae and pelvis are positioned and move in relation to one another. Even a small deviation in alignment can affect the way the body is loaded. This can cause extra pressure on joints and tension in surrounding structures.
The method focuses on carefully identifying deviations in the alignment and movement of joints. When a joint is not properly aligned, it is restored with a targeted and controlled correction. The goal is to bring back the natural balance in the body so that it can function in a normal and balanced way again.
What does an orthomanual therapy treatment involve?
Orthomanual therapy focuses on correcting joints that are not in the correct position. Using targeted and precise manual techniques, the alignment of a vertebra or the pelvis is restored. These corrections are performed in a controlled manner and tailored to your body. Work is carried out carefully, with attention to safety and precision.
During the correction, a specific movement is applied to bring the joint back into the correct position. This is done purposefully and with minimal strain on the body. The treatment is aimed at restoring the natural alignment of the spine, so that joints function better in relation to each other. This allows the body to readjust to a balanced and stable posture. If necessary, this recovery can be supported with additional guidance within MSK therapy.
Our approach is focused on carefully restoring the correct alignment of the joints. In doing so, we work precisely and in a controlled manner, so that the body can function in balance again.
Complaints it can help with
During orthomanual therapy, we look at complaints related to the alignment of the spine and pelvis. This therapy can be considered for persistent or recurring complaints of the musculoskeletal system.
Common complaints include:
- Low back pain
- Neck and shoulder complaints
- Headaches originating from the neck
- Pelvic complaints
- Radiating pain in arms or legs
These complaints can arise from long-term strain, poor posture, a fall, an accident, or intensive exertion during work or sports. Sometimes there is no clear cause, yet the pain persists. When complaints persist or keep returning, it can be useful to investigate whether the alignment of the spine or pelvis plays a role.
The effect on posture and freedom of movement
When the alignment of the spine and pelvis improves, the body can function more in balance. Joints work better together and the load is distributed more evenly. This can reduce muscle tension and make movement feel more natural.
Because the mechanical cause is addressed, the body has to compensate less. This can lead to a more stable posture and more confidence in movement. The effect of orthomanual therapy can manifest as:
- Greater freedom of movement
- Better postural balance
- Less muscle tension
- Improved load capacity during work or sports
The goal of orthomanual therapy is not only to reduce pain, but to restore a stable foundation. When the alignment and cooperation of joints improve, the body can better adapt to daily loads and the chance of recurring complaints can decrease.
Reimbursement and referral
In many cases, orthomanual therapy is (partially) reimbursed from supplementary health insurance. The reimbursement usually does not fall under the deductible, but this depends on your policy and insurer. It is therefore wise to check your policy conditions in advance or contact your health insurer.
No referral from a GP is required for orthomanual therapy. You can register directly for a consultation. If additional medical information is needed during the process, your GP or another healthcare provider can be contacted in consultation with you.
Working together on recovery
Do your complaints keep coming back? Or do you feel that the real cause is not yet clear?
Orthomanual therapy can help to gain better insight into the coherence within your body. Through careful examination and targeted treatment, we work on restoring balance and increasing confidence in movement.
Would you like to know if this treatment is suitable for your complaints? Please feel free to contact us for a personal consultation.
MSK medicine has, so to speak, changed both my daily and athletic life. I was a chronic back patient and had already undergone extensive physiotherapy and manual therapy, but the complaints were never fully resolved. In just a few sessions at MSK, that was rectified! I could hardly believe it. I have also taken up judo again, and with all that falling, things can occasionally shift out of place. With an appointment about once or twice a year, the doctor realigns my back, neck, and hips, and I am ready to go again. I am now 63 years old and have been practicing judo again since I was 57. While judo might be somewhat extreme, what matters most is that I am no longer limited by pain during movement in my daily life.
A very skilled and caring physician! She helped me tremendously with my hip problem. This method has cured me of migraines and stomach issues. Highly recommended.
Very satisfied; my appointment requests receive prompt responses. Every effort is made to schedule them as soon as possible.
No more treatments offered than necessary and effective
I visited MSK Centrum due to long-term neck and shoulder complaints. During the initial consultation, extensive time was taken to map out my symptoms. The explanation regarding the cause of my complaints was clear and understandable. After a few treatments, I noticed a distinct improvement in my range of motion and the pain decreased. The practice feels professional and calm, and I felt that my concerns were taken seriously. I would certainly recommend MSK Centrum to people with similar complaints.
Frequently asked questions about orthomanual therapy
What does orthomanual therapy do for back complaints?
In the case of back complaints, an investigation is made into whether there is a postural deviation in the pelvis or spine. When joints are not properly balanced, it can put extra pressure on muscles and nerves. A targeted correction can improve pressure distribution and reduce pain.
Is orthomanual therapy safe?
When the treatment is performed after careful examination and by an expert practitioner, orthomanual therapy is a safe form of treatment. The corrections are controlled and always tailored to your personal situation.
How quickly will I notice results?
That varies per person. Some people notice improvement after the first treatment. When complaints have existed for a longer period, several treatments are usually needed to achieve a stable result.
What is the difference between orthomanual therapy and physiotherapy?
Orthomanual therapy focuses primarily on correcting postural deviations in joints. Physiotherapy focuses more often on muscle training, exercise therapy, and improving strength and stability. Both forms of treatment can complement each other.
Is orthomanual therapy reimbursed?
In many cases, the treatment is partially reimbursed from supplementary insurance. This usually does not fall under the deductible. It is wise to check your policy conditions or contact your health insurer.