Treating mechanical joint dysfunction in children: a retrospective exploratory report of selected cases.

AIMS: The purpose of reporting on selected cases is to increase the recognition and treatment of mechanical joint dysfunction (restrictions in movement at the joint level) in pediatric patients.

METHODS

The selected cases demonstrate a variety of clinical outcomes that are possible using manual therapy to improve mechanical joint dysfunction and chronic pain. The techniques used for these patents were performed by a physical therapist without formal manual therapy training to encourage more physical therapists to use manual therapy as an intervention to improve outcomes in pediatric patients.

RESULTS

The hands-on treatment used to treat mechanical joint dysfunction improved participation and function in children of various ages with a variety of clinical issues.

CONCLUSIONS

: Recognizing and treating mechanical joint restrictions that interfere with active movement in children may result in decreased pain and improved motor skills, balance, self-regulation, sleep hygiene, and social interactions. Clinicians should consider manual therapy as an intervention strategy for pediatric patients with mechanical joint restrictions.