Hi

I am looking for some advice on treating a patient with highly irritable unilateral thoracic Wikipedia reference-linkfacet joints, which the pain is worst on sleeping on that side. This is from a flare up of an old injury post RTA that initial resolved 6 months ago with physiotherapy. Neuro is clear.

On palpation you can feel pockets of swelling around the inflamed joints, I have read that this can be treated by gently massaging the swelling with your thumbs to ease the pressure within the joint increasing the patients ROM. I have also read that you can advise your patient to self massage this area for 60 seconds with a tennis ball 2-3 times per week to get the same effect or by using a pair of rolled up socks. Additionally exercised such as bilateral knees to chest rolling is also said to help.

Has any one used these technique or can advise on other treatment methods for this condition.

Many thanks: o

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