Mobilisation

A frequently used technique within physiotherapy and manual therapy is mobilisation. Mobilisation 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 physiotherapist helps restore the function by moving the joint using special techniques. This can be done in several ways: passive, active, or assisted active.

Passive and active mobilisation

Mobilisation 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 mobilisation, it involves exercises in which the patient moves the joint themselves. A combination of these two forms is also possible. The physiotherapist or manual therapist helps while the patient actively moves the joint. This is assisted active mobilisation.

Techniques

The way of mobilising can differ per therapist. This depends on the training that has been followed. However, the aim is the same. Sometimes aids such as a traction band are used. This makes it easier to place a joint in a certain position.

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

Exercises

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

Make an appointment with a physiotherapist.