Joint Mobilisation | Time to get on the move

Joint Mobilisation, as defined by IFOMPT means “A manual therapy technique comprising a continuum of skilled passive movements that are applied at varying speeds and amplitudes to joints, muscles or nerves with the intent to restore optimal motion, function, and to reduce pain.” Based on this Joint Mobilisation, working on your joints with the guidance and assistance of a professional therapist improves their mobility. 

Why is it required?

The functionality of an area changes, when its joint’s mobility is limited. Due to a deficiency in cartilage nutrition, surrounding joints begin to move more, to compensate for the stiff joint; which results in excessive wear and tear due to their overuse. Other muscles surrounding the area also tend to lose their ability to contract and relax efficiently and tighten over time. 

These symptoms cause hindrance and extreme pain in some cases, to those who are going through them. Doing regular chores can seem implausible, and hence Joint Mobilisation is used. After a thorough examination and diagnosis, therapists narrow down the areas that need this therapy. Sometimes, they also work on a particular synovial joint to bring therapeutic benefit. Therapists can apply this method by themselves or use it as a complementary tool to help with a condition or trauma-recovery. 

What medical conditions does it help with?

Arthritis: Majority of people who deal with this issue will experience stiffness and restriction in movement which can be managed with this therapy.

Sciatica: In a nerve impingement syndrome like this, Joint Mobilisation can prove useful in initiating movement, under qualified-supervision.  

Areas that benefit from this therapy:

Joint Mobilisation can help deal with various areas of the body; some of them are:

- The Neck

- Shoulders

- Upper, Middle and Lower back

- Sacroiliac Joints

- Arms and Wrists

- Knees

- Feet and Ankles

How is it done?

The patient who needs therapy is made to lie down comfortably in a way which doesn’t put any pressure or strain on their targeted joints, which allows them to move their joints freely. Therapists will then use their hands to identify and localise the joint that needs to be mobilised. They will apply a bit of force in the appropriate direction. After a few sessions, the therapists can use new techniques and high-speed Mobilisation to ensure positive progress. 

Techniques Used 

In addition to the in-person therapy, the therapists will also prescribe exercises which can be done at home, that will help in sustaining the patient’s progress over time. 

What are the benefits of Joint Mobilisation?

Joint Mobilisation primarily helps with improving the movement of joints, that needed assistance. It reduces the strain put on a collective, which in turn lessens the pain. Patients who undergo an adequate amount of therapy consistently will be able to move independently devoid of any restriction. 

This therapy helps increase one’s mobility and induces a neurophysiologic effect that reduces pain and muscle spasms.  

Yours in self-care,

Adrian Wilk