Manipulation And Mobilisation
What are Manipulations and Mobilisations?
Manipulations and mobilisations are manual therapy techniques utilised by Chiropractors to reduce pain, improve function, range of motion and mobility of joints which has a subsequent impact on surrounding nerves, soft tissues, muscles, tendons and ligaments.
A manipulation is a safe and effective technique which is usually performed as a very fast, sharp and specific movement on a targeted joint. A mobilisation is a slower, smoother and gentle oscillating pressure applied to targeted joints.
Will you experience any pain during or after manipulation or mobilisation is applied?
Generally speaking, both manipulations and mobilisations are very well tolerated techniques. Some people might express mild discomfort after the first few manipulations or mobilisations which generally improves as they have further treatment.
What is the ‘pop’ sound you hear after a manipulation?
The common misconception is that the ‘pop’ sound is the joint clicking back into place, however it is a result of cavitation, which is a change in pressure in the joint accompanied by an almost immediate feeling of relief.
Manipulations and mobilisations are the most commonly utilised manual therapy techniques in the practice. Our practitioners believe in the utilisation of soft tissue therapies prior to the application of manipulation or mobilisations in order to achieve a better clinical outcome. Your treatment is then complimented with take home stretches or rehabilitation exercises to optimise your recovery.
You Ask, We Answer
What is chiropractic manipulation and how does it differ from mobilisation?
A chiropractic manipulation is a commonly used manual technique where a practitioner applies a quick, sharp, controlled thrust into a joint to help achieve movement. This may result in a crack or a pop sound. A mobilisation is a slower controlled movement of a joint through its natural range of motion. With a mobilisation there is not thrust administered.
How are mobilisation techniques used to gently improve joint mobility?
Mobilisation techniques improve joint motion by applying controlled, passive movement to specific joints, typically staying within a pain-free range.
What musculoskeletal conditions are best suited to manipulation?
These include but are not limited to acute and chronic back and neck pain, facet joint dysfunction, cervicogenic headache, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, peripheral joint dysfunction, sciatic presentations and joint stiffness.
When is mobilisation preferred over manipulation?
Elderly or osteoporotic patients, post surgical candidates, highly acute cases, inflammatory arthritis or conditions and hard neurological presentations.
What should a patient expect during a manipulation or mobilisation session?
Your treating practitioner will go through a detailed history and a thorough examination to help formulate a working diagnosis. We will then decide if you are a candidate for manipulation. If so, you should expect a reduction in pain and improvement in function.
How do manipulation and mobilisation complement each other in treatment plans?
We may use both in conjunction, we may use the mobilisation to build tolerance and then follow it up with a manipulation. You may have manipulation and mobilisation applied to different joints based on patient or practitioner preference.
What benefits do manipulation and mobilisation offer for pain relief and function?
Both techniques aim to reduce pain and swelling while improving joint and surrounding tissue function and health.
What are the common side effects or risks associated with manipulation?
The most common side effects are stiffness or soreness at the site of manipulation. Occasionally patients can experience headaches, dizziness or lightheadedness or tiredness after their manipulation(s). Potential risks will be discussed with your treating practitioner.
How many sessions are typically needed to see clinical improvement?
You should start to notice a clinical improvement within 1-2 treatment sessions.
Is there scientific evidence supporting manipulation and mobilisation in chiropractic care?
Yes, there is strong scientific evidence to support the use of manipulation and mobilisation to address lower back pain, neck pain, headaches, migraines, thoracic and extremity joints.
Are there any contraindications or safety considerations to be aware of?
Contraindications include but are not limited to severe osteoporosis, instability, fracture, severe inflammation, inflammation arthritic flare ups, certain vascular conditions, certain connective tissue disorders and certain neurological conditions. All safety considerations should be discussed with your treating practitioner.
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