Manual therapy is one of the most vital aspects of physical therapy because it allows the therapist to use their hands to apply safe and effective techniques straight to the affected area. There are a variety of techniques that they can perform to help alleviate pain and increase mobility, including the Mulligan technique.
The Mulligan technique allows you, as the patient, to work together with the physical therapist to help reduce the symptoms of an injury or medical condition that are interfering with your quality of life. While you’re carrying out a movement, the therapist applies the necessary force to improve the area’s function. At REPAIR SI, we utilize the Mulligan technique to help reduce your pain and improve your joint function.
What Is the Mulligan Technique?
The Mulligan technique was developed in New Zealand by physiotherapist Brian Mulligan. The goal of the Mulligan technique is to restore function of a joint that is causing pain and reduced mobility. It involves the physical therapist applying manual mobilization or “repositioning” as the patient completes an active movement. The therapist repositions the joint to help the patient increase their range of motion as they complete the motion. The therapist may use an accessory called the Mulligan belt to help complete the mobilization.
The method can be used to help alleviate aches associated with a variety of conditions, especially those that have impacted the spine. Your physical therapist will determine if the Mulligan technique will benefit your symptoms based on an assessment of joint restriction or pain during certain movements or physical activities.
The Mulligan technique is used to treat:
- Joint pain.
- Back pain.
- Neck pain.
- Headaches.
Patients have reported feeling immediate, long-lasting pain relief after a physical therapist performs the Mulligan technique on a restricted joint. The manipulation and kneading movements used during a Mulligan technique session can also decrease soft tissue inflammation and provoke relaxation.
REPAIR SI Can Help Reduce Pain and Increase Joint Mobility With the Mulligan Technique
When you don’t have a complete range of motion due to a restricted joint, it can be difficult to complete your daily activities, such as working out or completing chores around the house. The Mulligan technique can help alleviate your pain and restore your joint’s function with proper mobilization.
At REPAIR SI, the Mulligan technique is just one of the many manual therapy treatment options that we offer. Our physical therapists are qualified to perform a wide variety of techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and strain-counterstrain.
If you’re interested in exploring the many pain management options that REPAIR SI has to offer, including the Mulligan technique, contact our team today for more information or schedule an initial appointment.