What is the maitland concept?
Also know as the maitland technique, the maitland concept uses passive and accessory mobilisations of the spine to treat mechanical pain and stiffness. There are 5 grades of mobilisation in the maitland concept:
⋅ Grade 1 - Small movements of the spine performed within the spines resistance
⋅ Grade 2 - Larger movements of the spine but still perforemd within the spines resistance
⋅ Grade 3 - Larger movements of the spine performed into the spines resistance
⋅ Grade 4 - A small movement of the spine performed into the spines resistance
⋅ Grade 5 - A high velocity movement performed into the spine resistance
How does the maitland concept help?
The type of mobilisation used depends on the severity, irritability and nature of the spinal pain. The moilisations create movement within the joints of the spine which reduces stiffness and makes movement easier. This increased ease of movement aslo reduces pain.