Joint mobilization principles. Considerations for use in the child with central nervous system dysfunction.

The purpose of this article is to explore the use of mobilization in the treatment of capsular dysfunction of the shoulder joint in children with central nervous system dysfunction. A review of functional anatomy and of normal and abnormal development of the shoulder is presented. Basic mobilization principles and application of joint mobilization techniques to children with long-standing shoulder hypomobility and spasticity are discussed. Research to determine the benefits and risks of mobilization of joints in children with spasticity is recommended.