Joint Mobilizations

Question 1

List 3 indications for joint mobilization.

Answer 1

Restricted joint mobility
Restricted accessory motion
Desired neurophysiological effects

Question 2

List 10 contraindications to joint mobilization.

Answer 2

Infection
Advanced osteoporosis 
Articular hypermobility 
Fracture 
Acute inflammation
Muscle guarding 
Joint replacement 
Malignancy 
Pregnancy 
Spondylolisthesis

Question 3

Describe the 5 mobilization grades.

Answer 3

Grade 1: Small amplitude oscillations before tissue resistance
Grade 2: Large amplitude oscillations before tissue resistance
Grade 3: Large amplitude oscillations up to and slightly into tissue resistance
Grade 4: Small amplitude oscillations into tissue resistance
Grade 5: High velocity, low amplitude thrust at end range

Question 4

What are the indications for the different grades of joint mobilization?

Answer 4

Grades 1-2: Decrease pain/guarding and improve joint lubrication
Grade 3-4: Increase ROM, stretch tight capsules, muscles and ligaments
Grade 5: Regain normal joint mechanics and decrease pain and guarding

Question 5

What direction should mobilization take place for concave on convex versus convex on concave joints?

Answer 5

Concave on convex = apply mobilization in the same direction as the bone movement

Convex on concave: apply mobilization in the opposite direction of bone movement