Mobilisation is a therapeutic technique where a qualified practitioner gently moves an injured joint for the patient (passive movement). When done carefully, often after massage, it can restore movement more quickly and with less pain than other treatments.
The gentle movement helps tight or spasming muscles relax, improves nutrient flow, removes waste products, and allows muscles, tendons, and ligaments to move normally again. It also helps prevent stiffness or calcification and encourages the production of synovial fluid to lubricate the joint.
Mobilisation can reduce both physical and psychological fear of movement by showing the patient that the joint can move without pain. Audible clicks during mobilisation are common and usually harmless, caused by releasing tight tissues or small adhesions, not joint manipulation. Any concerns should be discussed with the practitioner immediately.