Indications:
• Movement restriction.
• Reduced mobility.
• Joint and spine pain.

How it works:
Spinal mobilization is defined as low-velocity, non-thrust, passive movement within or at the limit of joint range of motion (ROM) while spinal manipulation is defined as high-velocity thrust techniques at the limit of the ROM. In other words, during mobilization, the physical therapist applies oscillatory movements to the target joint.

Physical therapy manipulation uses fast and small movements at the end of ROM, which sometimes generates a ‘crack’ or ‘click’ sound at the joint. Both mobilization and manipulation help to decrease stiffness and muscle spasms, restoring movement and reducing pain. Both techniques take only a few minutes to execute.