What does the term 'mobilization' refer to in a sports medicine context?

In the context of sports medicine, 'mobilization' specifically refers to the process of putting a joint or body part into movement. This technique is often employed to restore mobility, improve function, and alleviate pain in areas that may have become stiff or restricted due to injury or inactivity. Mobilization can involve a range of techniques, including passive movements performed by a therapist or active movements encouraged by the patient, aiming to promote recovery and prevent further complications.

Understanding mobilization as a movement-oriented approach is crucial, particularly in rehabilitation settings, where encouraging movement can lead to enhanced healing and quicker recovery times. This contrasts with other terms that might focus on restriction or observation, which do not contribute actively to restoring function or range of motion.