A lot of people experience joint pain - either as a result of overuse, pre-existing medical conditions, or simple genetic predisposition. However, that doesn't mean that you simply have to live with the discomfort. In fact, people regularly turn to therapies like knee compression solutions, knee massage therapy, and joint mobilization as a way to reduce joint stiffness and pain.

So what are knee massage therapy and joint mobilization techniques, and how do they help you to get the full range of motion that you deserve?

Joint Mobilization Techniques

For pain-free, and comprehensive movement, your joints need to be able to move freely in all of the directions they were designed to move in. If they become somehow restricted or locked into a particular direction, then you're likely to suffer from stiffness or pain.

Knee massage therapy and joint mobilization are the techniques used by skilled physiotherapists to deliver a more completed range of motion in patients suffering from knee pain. It's all about manipulating the soft tissues supporting the structure of the knee, improving the placement of the muscles and the joint itself, and promoting proper lubrication without risking excess damage to the knee or leg.

Why Do Joints Become Stiff?

Usually, stiffness in the knee joints is frequently connected to overuse, aging, and the presence of conditions such as osteoarthritis or osteoporosis. Joint stiffness and locked joint syndrome can also occur as a result to injury around the ligament, tendons, muscles, or joint involved in the pain.

When we move - particularly as part of an active lifestyle, or in participation of a sport, our knee cap (patella) generally moves and slips out of its assigned place quite regularly. However, it usually re-centers itself without any medical assistance. Unfortunately, problems with alignment and control can cause the joint to move in an unnatural and awkward position, and the kneecap to remain out of place, leading to stiffness, discomfort, and even dislocation.

Examples of Knee Massage Therapy and Joint Mobilization Techniques

Commonly, joint mobilization techniques are very gentle and careful, as the people performing them want to help promote lubrication within the joints without leading to any further discomfort or injury. Because of this, the therapy might include stretching, bending, and adjusting the position of the joint through massage manipulation.

While in minor cases of discomfort, this can help to reduce some of the pain you feel as a result of overusing the knee, or damaging the joint in some way, it shouldn't be seen as an alternative to treatment from a health professional. If you find that you are suffering with problems in the knee joint, or you are struggling to achieve your full range of motion because of stiff joints, then you should speak to a medical expert about your condition. He or she will be able to give you advice as to whether knee massage therapy and joint mobilization should work for you, or whether you might need to look into additional physiotherapy solutions, as well as medication, and possibly even surgery.