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Mobilizations and repeated motion

Mobilizations and repeated motion

Paul Kochoa, PT, DPT, OCS, CKTP, CGFI

 

Here at Professional Physical Therapy and Training, one of our cornerstones of treatment is our hands-on approach, the joint mobilizations and soft tissue mobilizations that we perform on the majority of our patients with musculoskeletal issues.

Joint mobilizations are done by the physiotherapist.  The purpose is to restore normal joint mobility when a joint is tight or range of motion is limited.  It has neurophysiological effects as well.  Joint mobilizations can be very powerful, creating more elasticity in a joint capsule, facilitating normal joint motion, increasing strength, decreasing muscle tone, or decreasing pain.

Repeated motion is something that can be done by the patient.  It’s very easy to do once instructed correctly, it can be used as a test of motion and a treatment intervention.  It can also improve range of motion and decreased pain.  Repeated motion is integral to the home exercise program that the patient can perform at home or repeatedly during the day to maintain the flexibility and range of motion that was gained during the session with the physiotherapist.

Passive treatments such as joint mobilizations have their place, but active motion and self re-assessment and treatment are the key.

When you come in for a visit, if you have motion limitations, we will always give you some homework to continue with the work we do in the clinic.  Repeated motion is that homework.  Sometimes, if you can tolerate it, repeated motion can include joint mobilizations using overpressure into your end range of motion.  The bottom line is that both interventions are good, and used together they’re great.

If you would like more information, please call Professional Physical Therapy and Training at 973-270-7417.  Our offices are located within the YMCA locations in Madison and Summit, NJ.  You do not need to be a member of the YMCA to visit with us.

 

 Photo courtesy of Ambro / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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