Manual therapy influences far more than muscles and joints. Emerging research shows it affects the spinal cord, brainstem, autonomic nervous system, and immune pathways involved in pain. From pain gating to descending inhibition, from C-tactile touch to autonomic regulation, this blog breaks down the neurophysiological mechanisms behind hands-on treatment—and explains why manual therapy remains such a powerful tool for calming a sensitised nervous system.

Learn how chronic and complex pain conditions like CRPS develop when the brain and body amplify protection — and how neuro-informed therapy at The Flow Clinic helps retrain the nervous system.

This article critically appraises the development and limitations of GCTP and explores its implications in the context of sports massage therapy.

If you're dealing with persistent aches, strains, or musculoskeletal pain, you're not alone — and you're not imagining it. But what many people don’t realise is that your recovery isn’t just about muscles or joints. Your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours can play a big role in how you experience pain and how quickly you recover. These influences are known as “yellow flags”, and understanding them could be the key to unlocking better outcomes.