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Joint Mobilization

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Find a Physical Therapist who specializes in Joint Mobilization

What is Joint Mobilization?

Joint mobilization is a skilled manual therapy technique aimed at improving joint range of motion and reducing pain.

How does it work?

The therapist manually applies targeted pressures or forces on a joint in specific directions to help improve the mobility of that joint.  It can be performed at different levels of intensity and is guided by feedback from the patient on comfort.  It is usually pain-free.  When indicated, joint mobilization can be applied at a quick speed and short range to create a cavitation or “pop.”  This can be used to improve range of motion and/or decrease pain.

What are the benefits?

Joint mobilization can improve range of motion, reduce pain, and improve the mechanics of a joint to help with things such as lifting your arm, bending your spine, or walking.

Who is it suited for?

Any patient with joint stiffness or pain can benefit from joint mobilization.  It is generally not used on patients with excessive joint flexibility or fused joints.

What conditions/injuries does this treat?

Joint mobilization works great for shoulder pain and stiffness, such as with frozen shoulder or tendonitis, spine pain and stiffness, stiff ankles that have been immobilized in a boot, and many others.

Who can perform Joint Mobilization?

Most therapists can perform joint mobilization, though therapists who frequently use joint mobilization have done extra coursework and hands-on training in manual therapy.

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