Manual Therapy
Intra-Articular Mobilisation Techniques

What is it?

Manual Therapy uses clinical reasoning to select from a wide range of mobilisation and manipulation techniques for spinal and peripheral joints. The therapist stabilises one part of a joint and applies force to the adjacent area, usually towards the restriction. Intra-articular mobilisation techniques use gentle, rhythmic movements of the therapist’s hands, at different speeds and in specific directions within the joints’ physiological range. These can be combined with patient movements. Manipulations are high-velocity mobilisation techniques performed at the end of the intra-articular range. Specific exercises follow mobilisation to maintain the effects of manual therapy. After assessment, the physiotherapist and patient agree a treatment plan and the right method or combination of methods for the best clinical outcomes.

We use different Manual Therapy approaches:

• Kalterborn
• Μaitland Concept
• Mulligan Concept
• ΜcKenzie
• Ackermann

What are the benefits?

Manual therapy works alongside therapeutic exercise, myofascial release, neural tissue techniques and other rehabilitation methods to manage a wide range of musculoskeletal problems. It can reduce pain, stiffness and movement restrictions in many musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. Several studies, for example, have found significant improvements in pain and function after treatment for knee osteoarthritis. People with shoulder pain have also responded well to joint mobilisation and manipulation of the back (thoracic spine). Similar benefits have been seen in people with neck pain treated with mobilisation and manipulation of the upper (cervical) spine, and in patients with lower back pain.