Joint Mobilization and Manipulation Technique

Joint pain whether mild or severe can have a serious impact on the quality of your life. It can be caused by injuries or conditions and presents a range of cumbersome problems. Joint pain is not life threatening but can definitely cause discomfort, stiffness, inflammation and soreness to one or more joints of the body. Joint mobilization/manipulation has long been used to manage musculoskeletal dysfunction and relieve pain. It is indeed hailed as a holistic approach to regain ‘full joint range and pain-free movement’. Joint Mobilization / Manipulation refers to manual stretching techniques, performed by a Sports Specialist Doctor or Physical Therapist with an intent to mobilize joints, improve motion, reduce pain and normalize joint function. In the case of joint mobilization the Sports Specialist Doctor or Physical Therapist gently guides the restricted joint through its normal range of motion, usually with slow, rhythmic oscillatory pressure directed at a joint and applied in a highly specific manner. While, joint manipulation imparts small, but quick movements to a joint, at a greater speed and force. If your joints are ‘locked’ or ‘stuck’ opt for the joint mobilization/manipulation technique – a safe and effective way to restore or maintain joint integrity and modulate pain!

The Procedure

A Sports Specialist Doctor or Physical Therapist will first perform a thorough evaluation that includes reviewing health history and assessing the injured area. He/she will then place you in a comfortable and safe position so that you can relax and allow the region to move freely. The Physical Therapist will use his or her hands to determine if a joint in your body requires a manipulation or mobilization technique. The decision to use mobilization or manipulation is based on the nature and severity of your condition and your health status. Gentle pressure will initially be applied to the joint and if you are comfortable, with your consent, a small, quick thrust will be applied to the joint. Generally, heavier pressure is reserved for stiff and stubborn joints. Sometimes, your Physical Therapist may use a combination of both joint mobilization and manipulation techniques during your treatment session.

The Symptoms

You may need a Joint mobilization / manipulation technique

• To improve tissue extensibility, increase range of motion, relive pain, reduce soft tissue swelling, inflammation or restriction and promote relaxation
• To treat lower back pain, neck pain, Frozen shoulder, Cervicogenic headache, shoulder pains, muscle and joint problems, arthritis, tendinitis or work injuries
• To treat muscle spasm, reflex muscle guarding, joint hypomobility and diseases that progressively limits joint movement

The Eligibility

This hands-on-technique is an ideal choice for those looking

• For a less traumatic way of restoring normal joint mechanics than passive stretching
• For post-operative rehabilitation

However, it is not suitable if you are suffering from osteoporosis, fractured or ligament rupture, neurological deficits, bleeding disorders, excessive joint mobility and extreme pain.

The Risks Involved

Although extremely rare, risks of joint manipulation and mobilization may include, increased pain, bone fracture, nerve damage, muscle or tendon injury, ligamentous tearing, dislocation and joint capsule tearing.

The Impact

If done appropriately, mobilizations/manipulations can help relieve pain and restore joint play, which is critical for normal mobility, range of motion and function. It can also to a great extent improve joint nutrition, reverse joint hypomobility, restore motion and decrease muscle tension.

The ‘power of therapeutic touch’ has been used since time immemorial to soothe aches and pains. Tackling joint pain via hands-on-techniques is a great choice for those seeking for a holistic approach to ‘complete pain management solutions’. Decrease pain and increase joint mobility – with joint mobilization/ manipulation therapy. A highly reliable and effective ‘manual technique’ to enhance movement, function and your quality of life!