This refers to the use of manual therapy techniques to manage joint dysfunction and relieve pain caused by alterations in joint mechanisms that limit joint movement. Altered joint mechanisms may be caused by pain-induced defensive muscle contractions, joint effusion, contractures or adhesions of the joint capsule or supporting ligaments or poor joint alignment. Unlike other forms of passive or distraction, joint release techniques treat restricted joints in a manner that reduces abnormal compressive stresses on soft tissues such as articular cartilage, joint capsule, and periarticular ligaments, specifically by duplicating normal joint motion mechanisms. In order to effectively apply joint release techniques, clinical staff must understand and be able to examine anatomical, joint kinematic, and neuromusculoskeletal pathologies, and be able to identify when these techniques are indicated. Indiscriminate and indiscriminate use of joint release techniques for non-indications may result in injury to the patient’s joints. Normal joint action effect: Joint action allows the flow of joint fluid to deliver nutrients to the non-vascularized articular cartilage on the joint surface and to the meniscal fibrocartilage within the joint. After the joint is fixed, the articular cartilage atrophies. Joint motion maintains the extensibility and elasticity of the joint and periarticular tissues. After fixation, fibrofatty hyperplasia occurs, resulting in intra-articular adhesions and biochemical changes in tendons, ligaments, and joint capsule, leading to joint capsule contracture and ligament weakening. The nerve impulse input from the joint receptors is transmitted to the central nervous system to provide the relevant posture and movement. When a joint is injured or degenerates, such an important resource as proprioceptive feedback will be diminished, affecting the individual’s homeostasis and making the joint vulnerable to further damage. In these cases, treatment is directed toward reducing pain, maintaining effective intra-articular motion, and alleviating any mechanical restrictions that result in joint dyskinesia, and promoting recovery of joint function.