Introduction
Pain in lumber area is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints worldwide whether its due to poor posture sedentary lifestyle injury or age-related degeneration millions of individuals seek relief every day fortunately manual therapy techniques such as transverse glides offer non-invasive evidence-based solutions in this blog we will explore how transverse glides work and how they can help alleviate lower back pain effectively
What Are Transverse Glides?
Transverse glides are a form of passive joint mobilization technique used in manual therapy unlike typical flexion-extension movements transverse glides involve lateral or horizontal mobilization of spinal segments targeting facet joints in the lumbar spine the therapist applies a controlled force to glide one vertebra over another in a transverse side-to-side direction restoring movement reducing stiffness and promoting pain relief.
How Do Transverse Glides Help Lower Back Pain?
1. Restoring Joint Mobility
Restricted facet joints are a common source of mechanical lower back pain. Transverse glides help to gently mobilize stiff vertebrae, restoring normal movement patterns.
2. Reducing Muscle Guarding
Chronic pain often leads to muscle guarding and spasms. Mobilization can reduce this guarding reflex, allowing muscles to relax naturally.
3. Improving Spinal Alignment
By addressing joint restrictions, transverse glides support better postural alignment, which can prevent further stress on the lumbar spine.
4. Stimulating Proprioception
Mobilization enhances neuromuscular feedback, helping the brain recognize healthy joint positions and encouraging stability and balance.
When Are Transverse Glides Used?
This technique is commonly used in patients with:
- Chronic or acute lower back pain
- Lumbar facet joint syndrome
- Postural imbalances
- Discogenic pain without nerve compression
- Post-surgical stiffness (under guidance)
Clinical Application: How Are Transverse Glides Performed?
Patient Position: Usually prone or side-lying.
Therapist Contact: Thumbs or hypothenar eminence over the spinous process or transverse process of lumbar vertebrae.
Glide Direction: Lateral or oblique glide is applied to the vertebra.
Grade of Mobilization:
- Grade I-II: For pain relief
- Grade III-IV: For stiffness and mobility restoration
Repetitions: 30–60 seconds per segment, repeated 3–4 times as needed.
Precautions
Transverse glides should be performed only by qualified physiotherapists after a thorough assessment. Not suitable for patients with unstable spines, fractures, or malignancy.
Other Interventions along with Transverse glides
To enhance results, transverse glides are often combined with:
- Core strengthening exercises
- Postural correction
- Heat therapy
- Stretching tight muscles (e.g., hip flexors, hamstrings)
- Patient education on ergonomics
Conclusion
Transverse glides are a powerful manual therapy technique in the physiotherapist’s toolbox for treating lower back pain. By restoring natural joint motion, reducing stiffness, and enhancing proprioception, they provide a holistic, non-invasive path to healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are transverse glides painful?
No. They are gentle and adjusted to your pain tolerance.
Q2: How many sessions are needed?
Most patients feel relief within 2–4 sessions, depending on severity.
Q3: Can I do it at home?
This technique should only be performed by trained professionals. However, home exercises may be recommended afterward.