Joint Manipulation/Mobilization

Joint Manipulation / Mobilization

Our doctors are highly trained in spinal manipulations and mobilizations, which can increase motion to the joints and decrease pain. A manipulation, which is normally but not always applied to the spine, utilizes a quick but gentle maneuver, to enable movement in joints with decreased range of motion, thereby decreasing pain. Joint mobilization is similar to manipulation, but it is not as quick as a manipulation. It is still very effective at increasing motion in joints with limited range of motion.

Recently, there has been a significant amount of research and clinical practice guidelines that recommend the use of spinal manipulation in the treatment of back pain. Specifically, the American College of Physicians has published a clinical practice guideline that recommends the use of spinal manipulation before medication in the treatment of lower back pain. Articles demonstrating benefits of manipulation have also been published in the Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, the Journal of the American Medical Association, Annals of Internal Medicine, among others.

Flexion-distraction technique is another unique technique available for patients at Sport and Spine Rehab. A flexion distraction table is used to treat the lower and mid back. It moves up and down, side to side, and in and out. This motion provides traction which mobilizes the spinal joints, helps to resolve disc herniations, and decreases spasm in the surrounding muscles. Multiple studies have shown this specific lumbar traction technique to decrease the pressure in the disc thereby providing water and nutrients to a degenerated disc or helping to decrease the severity of disc herniations. This is the perfect technique for anyone with a disc condition.