Joint Mobilisations

Osteopathic Articulation is a gentle, rhythmic movement controlled by the therapist that aims to increase joint range of movement. It is a more gentle approach to joint management than (chiropractic) manipulation. However it usually has the same effect.

Joints are supposed to move… restricted movement or injury can lead to a loss of normal movement. Therapy is often needed to increase this movement to help both the structures within the joint and the muscles surrounding it.   Within the joint, there is structure which produces a lubricating fluid called synovial fluid to help keep the joints moving smoothly and aids shock absorbency. Synovial fluid also contains nutrients that supply the joint cartilage to both maintain it and help it recover from injury and normal wear and tear.

Articulating the joint helps produce synovial fluid and also increases blood and lymphatic flow which all aid recovery from injury and also decreases pain.  The muscles surrounding the joint also get gently stretched during articulation. Muscles can work overtime during joint issues causing them to hold the joint in an abnormal position, articulation helps them release.