What is Physiotherapy Instrument Mobilisation
PIM is a safe measurable and effective joint mobilisation technique provided by specifically trained physiotherapists. It aims to loosen joint stiffness and ease pain. This exciting physiotherapy technique uses a spring loaded instrument to precisely mobilise joints with greater safety, reliability and specificity compared to manual techniques. It is safer than manipulation as it eliminates the associated risks involved with manipulation.
Advantages / Benefits
- Can be done seated and through light clothing if desired
- The low force mobilisation makes treating older patients safer and more effective
- Useful for nervous and young clients
- Easily integrated with other therapies
- Safe treatment
- The mobilisation is easier on the client because of the high velocities and the low forces generated. This equates with less muscle and joint soreness during treatment and afterwards
- PIM is an evidence-based effective substitute for many mobilising and manipulative techniques
Evidence
As physiotherapists, we value treatment techniques that have sound scientific basis to assist us to achieve the best results as quickly as possible.
The development of PIM concept is evidence based and is established on physiotherapy biomechanical models such as Nordic concave-convex, combined movements, osteopathic upslope-down slope and Brian Mulligan’s concept of Positional Faults. Research has found PIM to be equivalent to manual mobilising techniques in reducing pain and improving function in patients
PIM can be used to treat:
- Pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- Tennis elbow
- Neck pain or general cervical dysfunction
- Restricted movements in joints and locked facet joints
- Radicular arm (nerve root pain)
- Thoracic (mid back) stiffness
- Rib stiffness or pain
- Restricted movements in the joints in the wrist, hand and fingers
- Trigger points and tightness in the muscles