Mobilization

A frequently used technique within physical therapy and manual therapy is mobilization. Mobilization aims to improve joint movement and/or reduce pain.

It can happen that due to an injury or a period in a cast, a joint no longer moves as smoothly as before or that movement is painful. A physical therapist helps restore function by moving the joint using special techniques. This can be done in several ways: passive, active, or active-assisted.

Passive and active mobilization

Mobilization is passive if the patient does nothing. The body part or joint is relaxed and is moved by the therapist. In the case of active mobilization, it involves exercises in which the patient moves the joint themselves. A combination of these two forms is also possible. The physical therapist or manual therapist helps while the patient actively moves the joint. This is active-assisted mobilization.

Techniques

The way mobilization is performed can differ per therapist. This depends on the training that has been followed. There are multiple views on mobilization, causing techniques to differ from each other. However, the goal is the same. Sometimes aids such as a traction band are used. This makes it easier to draw a joint into a certain position.

A manipulation is also a form of passive mobilization. This involves a short, quick movement of the joint during which a 'pop' can be heard and/or felt.

Exercises

Usually, mobilization alone is not enough to get rid of the symptoms. For that reason, for example, exercises are recommended.

Make an appointment with a physical therapist.