Mulligan Concept in Brunssum

Does a specific movement cause pain, or do you notice that a joint moves less smoothly? At Fysio in Balance in Brunssum, we can use techniques from the Mulligan Concept as part of your physiotherapy treatment. We combine manual mobilization with a movement that you perform yourself.

What is the Mulligan Concept?

The Mulligan Concept is a treatment approach developed by New Zealand physiotherapist Brian Mulligan. A key component is Mobilisation with Movement: combining joint mobilisation with active movement.

Your physiotherapist applies targeted pressure to a joint with their hands while you perform a movement. Sometimes a treatment belt is used. The aim is to make the movement easier and pain-free.

During the technique, we immediately assess whether your movement improves. Your response determines whether we continue, adjust the technique or choose a different approach.

What conditions can it be used for?

Mulligan Concept techniques may be considered for pain or restricted movement affecting areas such as:

The neck or back.
The shoulder.
The elbow, wrist or hand.
The hip or knee.
The ankle or foot.

For example, you may have difficulty turning your head, lifting your arm or bending your knee. Whether a Mulligan technique is appropriate depends on the assessment and how you respond to it.

What happens at your first appointment?

We begin by discussing your symptoms and what you would like to be able to do again. Which movements cause difficulty? When did your symptoms begin? What do you notice during work, sport or everyday activities?

This is followed by a physical assessment. We examine your range of movement, the movements that bring on your symptoms and other factors that may be relevant.

If a Mulligan technique appears suitable, we explain what we will do. We compare your movement before and during the technique so that, together, we can assess whether it becomes easier or more comfortable.

What does the treatment involve?

During treatment, you actively move while your physiotherapist performs a targeted mobilisation. For example, you may lift your arm, bend your knee or turn your head while the therapist guides the joint.

Pain-free movement is an important principle of Mobilisation with Movement. Please tell us immediately what you feel. If the movement remains painful, we adjust the technique or stop.

If the technique produces a positive change, we may repeat the movement several times. Treatment may also include exercises and advice to help you gradually increase your daily activities.

What can you expect from treatment?

Sometimes you may notice during the technique that a movement becomes easier or less painful. However, an immediate change does not necessarily mean that the problem has been permanently resolved.

We therefore also assess how you feel after treatment and what you notice in everyday life. This helps us determine whether the technique adds value to your treatment plan.

Results and the number of appointments vary depending on the person and the condition.

Can you do exercises yourself?

Where appropriate, you will learn exercises to work on your mobility and function at home. These may include self-mobilisation techniques that complement your treatment.

Your physiotherapist explains how to perform them, how often to practise and what to look out for. This helps you understand what you can do yourself and when to adjust or stop an exercise.

The Mulligan Concept at Fysio in Balance

At Fysio in Balance in Brunssum, we assess which treatment suits your symptoms and goals. Mulligan Concept techniques may complement exercises, advice and guidance on returning to your activities.

Would you like to make an appointment or ask a question first? Get in touch with us.

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