Joint Mobilisation

Understanding Foot Joint Mobilisation

Joint mobilisation is a manual therapy technique whereby a trained practitioner can safely move a skeletal joint (typically a synovial joint) throughout its range of motion using small gentle passive movements. This is done to help restore range of movement to stiff joints and to provide a therapeutic pain relieving effect.

Levels and Progression

There are varying levels of mobilisations and if the joint is particularly stiff or painful then only mild, small movements are undertaken. As the joint range of motion improves and patient's tolerance increases, the joints can be taken through a greater degree of motion.

Mobilisation vs. Manipulation

Mobilisations are different to joint manipulations in that:

• Manipulations involve sudden thrusting movements
• The joint will 'pop' once the pressure is released
• Mobilisations are generally safer than manipulating joints
• Mobilisations can be stopped at any point
• The soft tissue is less likely to spasm and potentially tear

Applications

It is useful for a wide variety of musculo-skeletal conditions such as:

• General foot pain
• Post injury recovery
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Various other conditions