Mobilisations
They are manual techniques in which the physiotherapist moves the joints in a controlled manner to improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore function.
- Stiffness after an injury or surgery.
- Joint pain (shoulder, knee, hip, ankle, wrist, fingers, spine, jaw).
- To regain range of motion.
A gentle movement, sometimes with some discomfort if the joint is very stiff.
Recent fractures, acute inflammatory processes, or serious joint diseases (such as infections or tumors).
- Passive mobilisations:The physiotherapist moves the joint without the patient participating. They are used when there is pain, stiffness, or the patient cannot move actively (post-surgery, severe injuries, etc.). Like Maitland mobilisations.Active-assisted mobilisations:
- The patient attempts to move and the physiotherapist helps or guides the movement. Indicated when the patient starts to regain strength and mobility but still cannot do it alone. Like Mulligan mobilisations. El paciente intenta mover y el fisio ayuda o guía el movimiento. Indicado cuando el paciente empieza a recuperar fuerza y movilidad pero todavía no puede hacerlo solo. Como las movilizaciones de Mulligan.
- Active mobilisations:The patient performs the movement under supervision. Ideal for gaining strength, coordination, and functional mobility. Like the mobilisations ofMckenzie.
- Accessory mobilisations:These are small slides or traction performed by the physiotherapist within the joint; they are not voluntary movements. Very useful in the shoulder, knee, or spine when the joint 'does not roll well' and there is a blockage. Like the mobilisations ofKaltenborn.
- Soft tissue mobilisations:These are combined with the fascia and muscles around the joint to improve overall movement.
- Neurodynamic mobilisations:Specific movements to 'free' the nerves when they are trapped or irritated (sciatica, carpal tunnel, radiating cervical pain).
- Oscillatory or rhythmic mobilisations: The physio applies short and repetitive movements in a joint. They are used to reduce pain and relax the tissue. Like the mobilisations ofMaitland.