Joint Mobilization

What is joint mobilization?

Joint mobilization is a type of manual therapy performed at our physical therapy clinics. It involves the passive movement of specific joints using the skilled application of force and direction to create the movement of a joint of the body. A physical therapist uses their hands to mobilize an affected joint or may elect to use certain tools to help deliver the desired treatment effect.

The specific type, magnitude, speed, and frequency it is performed depends on several factors, including the goal of treatment, the type of joint being targeted, and even your unique anatomy. The desired outcome of joint mobilizations include pain reduction, improved range of motion, and improved quality of joint movement.

What conditions can benefit from joint mobilization?

Sometimes, a joint can become irritated, swollen, or misaligned as a result of injury, stress, poor posture, repetitive movement, or as a result of age-related wear and tear. When this happens, the joint may not move correctly and become stiff and painful. Nearby structures including muscles, tendons, and ligaments may become tense or injured as a compensatory effect of trying to support or stabilize the injured joint. This can lead to muscle weakness, tissue impingement, and possibly damage nearby nerves.

Joint mobilization is not appropriate for all patients, and our skilled and experienced physical therapists can determine if it is right for you or a loved one. Specific conditions that may be appropriate for joint mobilization include:

  • Arthritis (especially of the shoulder, spine, elbow, hip, and knee)
  • Rotator cuff tears and sprains
  • Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
  • Medial or lateral epicondylitis (golfer’s or tennis elbow, respectively)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Sciatica and other types of nerve impingement syndromes
  • Facet joint locking and other types of spinal misalignments
  • Whiplash

Joint issues are often the hidden underlying factors driving other types of injuries and ailments. Some of which may include muscle strains, ligament damage, and bursitis. If you are dealing with pain, ask your MVPT physical therapist about the benefits of joint mobilization.

Learn More about Joint Mobilization

Are you wondering if joint mobilization is right for you? Call MVPT Physical Therapy today. Our friendly staff is happy to answer your questions, help you schedule an appointment. They can also help you to understand the wide range of physical therapy services we offer. Drug-free relief from your joint or muscle pain is possible, so give us a call to get your healing journey started today.