Ask a PT Response: "The best way to understand joint mobilization is to review and understand the arthrokinematics at a joint. For example, for GH External Rotation the ball will have to roll anteriorly in the socket in order to achieve ER. Therefore, anterior joint mobs could be performed if GH ER is lacking in a patient. Another example could be at the ankle joint/talocrural joint. For ankle dorsiflexion, the talus must glide posteriorly in order to achieve ankle DF. Therefore, posterior joint mobs could be performed to assist with achieving increase ankle DF if this motion is lacking. If you understand the arthrokinematics at a joint, you should have no problem determining which joint mob should be performed to assist with achieving the desired outcome. Best of luck with your studies and with your boards."