When active motion is limited, passive motion is not, but there is still pain or a sticking point, there is no physical barrier. There is a perception of pinch or pain, but it's neurologically limited. Often we find the most painful "hard end feel" and oscillate it or thrust through it. It usually improves upon re-test. Some patients will be too tender to use your go to mobilization or thrust techniques. Using manual resistance or agonist reversals gets your through a sticking point and often restores threat free end range. The goal is get the patient repeatedly loading the same motion to end range with passive overpressure repeatedly to keep the treatment effects going after you're done. All manual techniques should be applied with the goal of empowering the patient for self treatment.
An Easier Way to Mobilize the Cervical Spine
When active motion is limited, passive motion is not, but there is still pain or a sticking point, there is no physical barrier. There is a perception of pinch or pain, but it's neurologically limited. Often we find the most painful "hard end feel" and oscillate it or thrust through it. It usually improves upon re-test. Some patients will be too tender to use your go to mobilization or thrust techniques. Using manual resistance or agonist reversals gets your through a sticking point and often restores threat free end range. The goal is get the patient repeatedly loading the same motion to end range with passive overpressure repeatedly to keep the treatment effects going after you're done. All manual techniques should be applied with the goal of empowering the patient for self treatment.