When joints become dysfunctional, as a result of trauma, overuse, or disuse, they are unable to perform movement for which they were designed. Joint mobilisation is a technique hand therapists (physiotherapists) use to restore this movement. Joint mobilisation involves moving the joint back and forth in small oscillating movements further and further into range to restore the joints normal movement. It also stimulates the cartilage to produce synovial fluid which provides the joints with the necessary nutrition and lubrication.
Joint mobilisation is beneficial where the joints are tight or restricted in motion. Sometimes it can help restore the correct mechanics to a joint that is slightly maligned.