Article

Joint mobilizations are used as an
intervention for improving range of motion, decreasing pain and ultimately
improving function in patients with a wide variety of upper extremity diagnoses.
However, there are only a limited number of studies describing this treatment for
conditions affecting the elbow, wrist, and hand. Furthermore, it is unclear as to
the most effective joint mobilization technique utilized and the most beneficial
functional outcomes gained. PURPOSE: Examine the current evidence describing
joint mobilizations for treatment of conditions of the elbow, wrist and hand, and offer informative practical clinical guidance. METHODS: Twenty-two studies dated
between 1980 and 2011 were included in the systematic review for analysis.
RESULTS: The current evidence provides moderate support for the inclusion of
joint mobilizations in the treatment of lateral epicondylalgia (LE). In
particular, mobilization with movement as described by Mulligan is supported with
evidence from nine randomized clinical trials as an effective technique for the
treatment of pain. Other described techniques include those known as Kaltenborn,
Cyriax physical therapy, and Maitland, but the evidence for these techniques is
limited. There is also limited evidence for the joint mobilizations in the
treatment of wrist and hand conditions. CONCLUSIONS:
The current literature
offers limited support for joint mobilizations of the wrist and hand, and
moderate support for joint mobilizations of the elbow for LE. There is moderate
support for mobilization with movement. .
CI - Copyright (c) 2013 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS