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3 Best Joint Mobilisation Techniques For Back Pain

Joey Lee Chiropractor Consult Sarah

May 10, 2025

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Westside Sports Chiro

Back pain affects millions globally, prompting many to seek effective relief through joint mobilisation techniques. While numerous approaches exist, three specific methods have consistently demonstrated superior outcomes in clinical settings. These evidence-based techniques focus on precise mechanical interventions that address both acute and chronic back conditions, offering therapeutic benefits that extend beyond temporary pain relief. Understanding these targeted mobilisation approaches can transform how healthcare practitioners and patients approach spinal care, potentially eliminating the need for more invasive treatments. Let's examine these proven techniques that have revolutionised back pain management.

Central Posteroanterior Spinal Mobilisation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-k3lqNXo9M

Central posteroanterior spinal mobilisation represents a fundamental manual therapy technique that involves applying directed force through the spinous processes in a posterior-to-anterior direction. This joint mobilisation approach can be performed with the patient positioned prone, side-lying, or sitting, enabling practitioners to effectively target specific segments of the lumbar spine and surrounding soft tissue structures.

The technique encompasses various grades of passive movements, ranging from gentle oscillations (Grade I-II) to more aggressive mobilisations (Grade III-IV), allowing therapists to address different levels of joint restriction and back pain. Clinical evidence supports its effectiveness in temporarily increasing range of motion and providing pain relief through both mechanical and neurophysiological mechanisms. The application of posteroanterior force stimulates joint mechanoreceptors while simultaneously modulating pain pathways within the central nervous system.

When properly executed, this manual therapy technique facilitates improvements in Flexion Extension movements and overall spinal function. The intervention's versatility makes it particularly valuable in treating patients with various manifestations of spinal dysfunction, as the force application can be precisely adjusted to match individual patient tolerance and therapeutic objectives. Research demonstrates that central PA mobilisation delivers both immediate and short-term benefits in managing spine-related conditions. Regular application of this technique supports natural healing processes while reducing dependency on pain medication for long-term management.

Sustained Joint Glide Movements

While posteroanterior mobilisations focus on segmental movement, sustained joint glide movements represent a distinct manual therapy approach characterised by the application of controlled, prolonged force vectors to specific spinal segments. These passive accessory techniques involve maintaining steady pressure on targeted vertebral segments, particularly the transverse processes, to enhance joint mobility and reduce pain in patients with restricted spinal movement.

Techniques for the lumbar spine often incorporate sustained joint glides at the end of range, where physiotherapists gradually increase the mobilisation force to facilitate improved range of movement. This methodology has demonstrated effectiveness in addressing various musculoskeletal conditions, from localised back pain to frozen shoulder, by promoting enhanced joint mechanics and tissue adaptability. Research supports the integration of sustained glides to improve proprioception and reduce disability levels in patients with spinal dysfunction.

When systematically applied, these mobilisation techniques create progressive tissue adaptation, allowing for increased joint mobility while maintaining patient comfort. Physiotherapists frequently combine sustained glides with other manual interventions to optimise therapeutic outcomes, particularly when addressing chronic joint restrictions and movement limitations in the vertebral column. Soft tissue therapy techniques can complement joint mobilisation to target tight muscles and fascia surrounding the affected areas.

Lumbar Rotation Mobility Techniques

Establishing proper lumbar rotation mobility requires systematic assessment and targeted manual therapy techniques that focus on segmental movement patterns within the vertebral column. Physiotherapy practitioners commonly employ methods described by Hertling et al, which utilise specific patient positioning and spinal locking techniques to isolate and evaluate rotational components.

Assessment accuracy can be enhanced through uni-level lumbar spinal block procedures, as validated by dynamic MRI studies. These diagnostic approaches help clinicians identify restricted segments and guide treatment selection. The Central Posteroanterior (PA) Mobilisation Technique is frequently used to treat areas of limited mobility, with variations applied to address specific spinous process restrictions and increase range of motion.

Mobilisation with Movement (MWM) techniques have demonstrated effectiveness to reduce pain and improve functional outcomes. The interrater reliability of lumbar accessory motion testing provides clinicians with consistent parameters for assessment and treatment progression. When properly executed, these mobilisation techniques can lead to increased range of spinal rotation and improved vertebral segment mobility. This systematic approach guarantees targeted intervention at specific spinal levels whilst maintaining adjacent segment stability during treatment implementation. Advanced soft tissue therapies like myofascial release and IASTM can complement these mobility techniques to enhance overall tissue health and flexibility.

Conclusion

Efficient joint mobilisation techniques remain essential for managing back pain and improving spinal function. Central posteroanterior spinal mobilisation, sustained joint glide movements, and lumbar rotation mobility techniques demonstrate significant therapeutic value when properly applied. These evidence-based approaches, when implemented systematically, contribute to enhanced joint mechanics, reduced pain levels, and improved functional outcomes. Regular application of these specialised techniques supports ideal spinal mobility and pain management protocols.

Testimonials

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Sarah T.
"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalised approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"
Sarah T.

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"
mike li
Great knowledge and experience , Great job Jason!!Definitely will recommend
N “Neens” A
Wow! What an amazing experience! Dr Joey is absolutely brilliant! He was able to diagnose & treat a multitude of issues I have with my neck, back, shoulders & ankle. He was compassionate and understanding with all my concerns and I am forever grateful! There aren’t enough gold stars to show how amazing he is!
DJ NIKCO
I travel 2 hours each way every 2 weeks to see Jason and its worth it! He works with the whole body and is able to give detailed answers to all my questions. My injury was super complex as I have seen many specialists but no one has made any progress but now with jason I continue to see improvement each session! High Recommend.
Ralph
Good vibes as soon as you walk in,professional service,attention to details in adressing issues and providing plenty of explanation and a professional approach to move forward.muchly recommended 👍
Lyle Tacadena
Jason! He knows his stuff! I've had knee pain for months and with one treatment, the pain went from 90% to 10%. Hoping he can work his magic on the rest of the body. Amazing work and THANK YOU!
Shanny Ho
Thankyou Jason for your wealth of knowledge. I saw Jason as a new patient for a chronic issue I have had for quite a few years! It has stopped me from moving as much as I have in the past as the pain associated afterwards was always debilitating: tightness in the hips, pain on pressure on the heel of the foot. Just with the treatment provided in one session it feels better the day after with weight on the heel and my hip feels much more agile. Hopefully with the next couple of appointments I’ll be back to cycling and lifting !
Gordon Holloway
With my experience with Jason great personality very reliable and trustworthy he listens to your problems and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you.
Ramzy Shublaq
Easily the best of the best in the business. I have been seeing Jason for over a year and he has helped me more than any other health practitioner. I am also a PT and currently refer a lot of my clients in to him, and they have all had glowing reviews and feedback. Thanks Jason ✌🏼
CHUNG-WEI TSAO
Thanks to Jason's treatment, I feel liberated after each session, and he also tells me how I can take care of myself, which is very useful , I wish I could meet him earlier.
Country life “Dragon” In Sydney
Jason is amazing i felt releif from a long time neck shoulder and foot pain from first session , he take his time treating his patients , very professional. i have been with my previous chiropractor for years spend too much money and i didn’t benefit , thank westside clinic for best service and treatment
Steve L
I had the pleasure of visiting Jason this past Saturday, and I must say, it was a fantastic experience. Jason is not only incredibly skilled but also honest and informative. I appreciated how he took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I understood the treatment plan. What impressed me most was Jason's dedication to his craft and his genuine concern for his patients' well-being. He didn't rush through the session; instead, he took the time to address my concerns and tailor the treatment to my specific needs. I purposely waited more than 24 hours before writing this review to let the effects of the session settle and to give an honest opinion after a workout. I can confidently say that I feel a significant improvement, and I am grateful for Jason's expertise. If you're looking for a chiropractor who combines skill with a caring attitude, I highly recommend Jason. Thank you, Jason, for a truly exceptional experience!
Raffi Omer
Dr Jason Lee the man with full knowledge and experience. Highly recommend this place. If don't want to drag your pain with continuous appointments please come and visit place your well see the difference in 2 sessions..
John
Jason addressed my neck and shoulder issue in just one session and is now making significant improvements to my lower back. His expertise is evident, and I highly recommend him.
Jason Fong

Have been visiting Jason at Westside Sports Chiropractic for several months now and am really impressed with his thorough assessment and treatment. He takes the time to understand the root cause and focuses on correcting that, not just a short term fix. I've seen a lot of improvement in my condition so far. Would highly recommend.

Tim Booth

Jason is fantastic. He knows his stuff and every issue I have brought to him has been solved with a logical approach and with confidence.I wish I had found him much sooner then I did.Highly recommended.

Travelling Soldier

Jason is a wholistic health professional. Saw him for a long standing shoulder pain. Clear ultrasounds and x-rays. He accurately diagnosed the underlying cause and offered rapid yet sustainable relief in just one session. Now looking at rehab with him in the on-site gym and continue to strength and conditioning long term. Glad I called in !

Oscar Marulanda

I’ve been in treatment with Jason for over a year. I went with a back injury and Jason basically “fixed” me. Along the way, he has provided guidance and advice about how to improve my back.Recently, I have sessions with Joey. His skills and experience are aligned with Jason’s which made you feel comfortable that either one of them is equally doing the best for you.I’ve recommended Jason to my mum, brother and brother-in-law. They all agree that Jason has miracle hands.

Daniel Eishou

Iv had 2 sessions with Jason, iv had neck/shoulder a shoulder issue for years now. He has no joke found the issue given me things to work on and only after 2 sessions it actually feels it's getting better. Very knowledgeable and the session is worth it.

Sarah T.

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"

John Lee

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"

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