24/06/2026
The Mulligan Technique is a manual therapy approach developed by Brian Mulligan and is commonly used by physiotherapists to treat certain types of back pain, neck pain, and joint movement restrictions.
What is the Mulligan Technique?
It combines:
* A sustained joint glide applied by the therapist
* Active movement performed by the patient at the same time
The goal is to restore normal joint mechanics and reduce pain during movement.
How it may be used for back pain
For low back pain, a physiotherapist may use:
* Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides (SNAGs) – gentle mobilizations applied to spinal joints while you bend, extend, or rotate.
* Natural Apophyseal Glides (NAGs) – passive mobilizations to improve spinal movement and reduce stiffness.
These techniques are often combined with:
* Stretching exercises
* Core strengthening
* Posture correction
* Activity modification
Potential benefits
Research suggests Mulligan mobilization may:
* Reduce pain in some people with mechanical low back pain
* Improve range of motion
* Enhance functional activities such as bending and walking
* Provide short-term improvements when combined with exercise
Who may benefit?
It is most often used for:
* Mechanical low back pain
* Movement-related pain
* Mild to moderate spinal stiffness
* Some cases of sacroiliac joint dysfunction
When caution is needed
A healthcare professional should evaluate you before treatment if you have:
* Recent significant trauma
* Suspected fracture
* Severe osteoporosis
* Cancer involving the spine
* Infection
* Progressive weakness, numbness, or bowel/bladder symptoms
Effectiveness
Current evidence suggests the Mulligan Technique can be helpful for certain patients with mechanical low back pain, particularly when combined with an exercise program. It is generally not considered a standalone cure, but rather one component of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
If you tell me:
* Your age
* Where the back pain is located (upper, mid, or lower back)
* How long you’ve had it
* Whether the pain travels into the leg
