Joint Mobilization: Hip Joint and Knee Joint

Introduction

This course describes joint mobilizations for the hip joint and knee joint (a.k.a. pelvifemoral joint, ichiofemoral joint, femorotibial joint, tibiofemoral joint, etc.). Several terms and definitions have been used to describe the "mobilizations" (e.g. mobilisations) that are taught in this course. The Brookbush Institute uses a conventional definition of "mobilization" that includes low amplitude, low-velocity, oscillatory techniques intended to reduce the stiffness of joints exhibiting a decrease in passive accessory range of motion (a.k.a. arthrokinematic motion and specifically glide or slide). Note, the term "manipulation" is reserved for high-velocity techniques taught in a separate set of courses.

This course includes several of the most commonly recommended techniques used to address hip joint and knee joint stiffness, and improve hip and knee range of motion (ROM). For example, research has demonstrated that hip joint mobilizations may be used to address a loss of hip rotation, increase gluteal muscle activity, and improve functional outcomes for hip osteoarthritis patients. These techniques may also be used in an integrated approach for lower extremity dysfunctions (LED) and lumbo pelvic hip complex dysfunctions (LPHCD) including iliotibial band syndrome, patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), and hip impingement syndrome, and postural dysfunctions including knee valgus, knee varus, excessive forward lean, anterior pelvic tilt, or asymmetrical weight shift. Some evidence and clinical outcomes even suggest that addressing hip dysfunction can have a significant effect on ankle mechanics and heel strike during gait.

The techniques in this course are recommended for all clinical human movement professionals (physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, athletic trainers, massage therapists, chiropractors, occupational therapists, etc.) with the intent of developing an evidence-based, systematic, integrated, patient-centered, and outcome-driven approach.

Techniques Covered in this Course

• Knee Mobilization
• Hip Mobilization

Sample Intervention (Limited Hip Rotation ROM)

• Manual Release
  • Tensor Fascia Latae and Gluteus Minimus Static Manual Release
  • Vastus Lateralis Static Manual Release
  • Anterior Adductors Static Manual Release
• Mobilization or Manipulation
  • Hip Mobilization
• Manual Lengthening
  • Manual Adductor Stretch
  • Manual Hip Flexor Stretch
• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
  • Fascia Lata
• Activation
  • Gluteus Maximus Activation
  • Gluteus Medius Activation
• Reactive Activation
  • Lateral hop to balance
• Integration
  • Posterior Oblique Subsystem

Related Courses

Additional Joint Mobilization Courses

• Joint Mobilizations: Ankle and Tibiofibular Joints
• Joint Mobilizations: Knee and Hip Joints
• Joint Mobilizations: Lumbar Spine and Sacroiliac Joints
• Joint Mobilizations: Cervical and Thoracic Spine
• Joint Mobilizations: Shoulder, Sternoclavicular, and Acromioclavicular Joints
• Joint Mobilizations: Elbow and Proximal Radioulnar Joints

For an introduction to joint mobilizations and manipulations:

• Joint Mobilization and Manipulation: Introduction
• Joint Mobilization and Manipulation: Reliability
• Joint Mobilizations and Manipulations: Effects
• Joint Mobilization and Manipulation: Risk of Adverse Effects
• Joint Mobilizations and Manipulations: Evidence-based Teaching and Learning