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16 Years
experience
Your Trusted Physical Therapy Partner in Wheeling, IL
Founded in 2010, The Manual Touch has established itself as a leader in holistic physical therapy, combining traditional and non-traditional manual techniques to address complex patient needs. Our approach is rooted in the belief that all body systems and mental/emotional health are interconnected, allowing us to identify and treat root causes of pain and dysfunction rather than just symptoms. With over 25 years of clinical experience, our founder developed a unique methodology integrating Integrative Manual Therapy (IMT) and Applied Functional Science to create personalized treatment plans that promote long-term healing and functional improvement.

We specialize in treating chronic pain, sports injuries, and postural imbalances while maintaining a strong commitment to patient education and community wellness initiatives. Our one-on-one care model ensures each patient receives undivided attention, with treatment plans continuously refined through ongoing assessment and evidence-based practices. This patient-centered philosophy has earned us recognition as a trusted resource for individuals seeking effective solutions for both acute and chronic conditions.
Services
Physical Therapy Manual Therapy Running Injury Treatment Chronic Pain Management Postural Correction Balance Rehabilitation Sports Performance Enhancement Scar Tissue Release Kinesio Taping Functional Movement Assessment
Details
  • Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
  • We use a whole-body approach to identify and treat root causes of pain
  • Our founder has over 25 years of clinical experience in manual therapy
  • Specialized treatment plans for complex, chronic conditions
  • One-on-one care model with undivided therapist attention
  • Proven success with patients who've failed traditional therapy approaches
What people say
Excellent physical therapist Holistic approach Significant pain reduction Personalized treatment plans Improved mobility
Services
Integrative Manual Therapy
Our integrative manual therapy combines traditional deep tissue techniques with gentle, non-traditional approaches to address musculoskeletal issues. This method effectively treats chronic pain, scar tissue restrictions, and postural imbalances by working with the body's natural healing processes. Patients benefit from improved range of motion, reduced pain, and enhanced functional movement through our hands-on, individualized treatment approach.
Running Injury Rehabilitation
Specialized running injury rehabilitation focuses on identifying biomechanical imbalances and gait abnormalities that contribute to running-related injuries. Through video analysis and functional movement assessments, we develop customized treatment plans that address core weaknesses, improve running form, and prevent future injuries while helping athletes return to their desired performance levels safely and effectively.
Chronic Pain Management
Our chronic pain management program addresses complex, long-term pain conditions through a comprehensive approach that identifies underlying causes rather than just treating symptoms. By combining manual therapy techniques with targeted exercise programs and patient education, we help individuals achieve lasting pain relief and improved quality of life through non-invasive, drug-free treatment methods.
Postural Correction
Postural correction services address musculoskeletal imbalances caused by poor posture through a combination of manual therapy, targeted exercises, and movement re-education. This treatment approach helps alleviate pain caused by postural deviations, improves body mechanics, and prevents future injuries by restoring proper alignment and functional movement patterns.
Balance Rehabilitation
Balance rehabilitation programs address vestibular disorders and balance issues through specialized manual techniques and functional exercises. Our approach improves stability, reduces fall risk, and enhances overall mobility by addressing underlying musculoskeletal imbalances and neurological factors contributing to balance problems through personalized, progressive treatment plans.
People
Denise Schwartz
Owner/Physical Therapist
Denise Schwartz has over 25 years of experience in physical therapy, specializing in integrative manual therapy and sports rehabilitation. She developed The Manual Touch's unique treatment approach combining traditional and non-traditional techniques to address complex patient needs. Her expertise in treating chronic pain and sports injuries has earned her recognition as a leading physical therapist in the Chicago area.
Questions
What makes The Manual Touch different from other physical therapy clinics?
Our whole-body approach combines traditional and non-traditional manual therapy techniques to address root causes of pain and dysfunction, with personalized one-on-one treatment sessions.
Do you treat patients with chronic pain conditions?
Yes, we specialize in treating chronic pain conditions using integrative manual therapy techniques that address underlying causes rather than just managing symptoms.
Can you help with running-related injuries?
Yes, we offer specialized running injury rehabilitation including gait analysis and customized treatment plans to address biomechanical imbalances and prevent future injuries.
What should I expect during my first visit?
Your first visit includes a comprehensive assessment of your condition, medical history, and functional movement patterns to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Do you accept insurance?
We provide documentation for out-of-network insurance claims and work with patients to maximize their insurance benefits for physical therapy services.
How long are treatment sessions?
Treatment sessions typically last 45-60 minutes, with focused, hands-on therapy and personalized exercise instruction during each one-on-one appointment.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Jjoseph
Jul 28, 2021 Report
Denise has been very helpful within 2 sessions on getting my running back on track after a bad bout with plantar fasciitis. The app is a nice touch with video to guide you on using proper technique. I am thankful my wife had already been a client recommend me. Happy to say I was able to compete in my first 10k since March 2020. Looking forward to staying on track moving forward.
Ed Zare
Jul 28, 2021 Report
I have experienced lower disk problems for more than 30 years. After numerous visits to multiple Physical Therapists, I have found this round of therapy to be extremely productive. Denise and Kevin have helped me to a full recovery from this lower back pain episode in about two weeks. They are both very knowledgeable and I would highly recommend using their services for therapy.
Amy Birtman
Apr 30, 2021 Report
I injured my hip while doing lots of walking during this past year of COVID. I went to a traditional physical therapist who brought me along a little bit, but my progress plateaued. I went to see the therapists at The Manual Touch, and with their holistic approach, I not only healed, but I gained strength and mobility in my core. I can never thank them enough.
Rachel Totten
Nov 18, 2020 Report
Denise has made an enormous impact on my life. I go to The Manual Touch for both traditional and non-traditional therapy. The traditional therapy has helped me regain strength and align my hips after a few major car accidents. I used to have severe hip pain almost every day and would stretch and use heating pads.
Now, I do the exercises Denise gave and showed me. The non-traditional therapy I have gotten at TMT has helped me recognize and manage my anxiety and set personal boundaries. It has also helped me with my sleep patterns. The biggest change has been through the non-traditional therapy
Barbara Miller
Nov 12, 2020 Report
I came to Denise with hamstring pain. After treatments I walked away with no pain. Denise took a whole body approach which eliminated my pain and gave me techniques and exercises to prevent further injury. I highly recommend Denise and the Manual Touch Physical Therapy.