Manual techniques to improve joint biomechanics & decrease pain.

mobilization vs manipulation? 

Both are manual therapies to help improve joint mechanics and decrease pain. Simply put:

• Mobilizations are slow, low-force procedures that move a joint throughout its entire normal range of motion. These can also be performed with the help of a resistance band. 
• Manipulations are gentle, but quick thrusts applied to a joint in order to move it beyond its normal range of motion. Joint manipulations are often associated with a cavitation, which is the audible "pop" or "click", indicating a release of pressurized gas from within the joint. 

There is a time and place for when a mobilization or a manipulation may be chosen over another, but also may be applied together to achieve maximal therapeutic effectiveness. Both can be effective in the treatment of neck pain, lower back pain, and many other conditions.