Mulligan SNAGs and Reverse NAGs for the Neck and Back in Mineola, NY
MULLIGAN CONCEPT
SNAGs and Reverse NAGs
SNAG stands for Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glide. Dr. Kurian holds a gentle glide on one level of your spine, following the natural angle of the small joints, while you turn, bend or tilt. NAGs and Reverse NAGs are related, gentler rhythmic glides for the neck and upper back, often used with older patients and people who sit with their head forward.
Certified Mulligan Practitioner Over 10 Years of Experience
Our clinics director is a Certified Mulligan Practitioner (CMP) with over a decade
of experience using this evidence-based approach. Each treatment is customized to
your specific diagnosis and movement limitations to achieve optimal outcomes.
How it works
- We test which level of your spine is involved.
- Dr. Kurian places a hand or thumb on that vertebra and holds a gentle glide.
- You slowly move into the stiff or painful direction while the glide is held.
- If the movement is easier and pain-free, we repeat it a few times; if not, we adjust.
- We often teach a self-SNAG with a towel or belt for home.
What it feels like
A firm, comfortable pressure on one spot of your spine while you move. Most people find the movement goes further and feels easier.
Conditions we use it for
- Neck Pain and Stiffness
- Acute Wry Neck
- Headaches That Start in the Neck
- Neck Related Dizziness and Nausea
- Foggy Head Feeling From the Neck
- Upper Neck (C1/C2) Rotation Loss
- Upper Back Pain and Stiffness
- Mid Back Pain
- Low Back Pain and Disc Problems
- Leg Pain That Starts in the Back
- Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain
What the research says
SNAGs have been studied in neck pain, headaches from the neck, neck related dizziness and low back pain. A 2026 meta-analysis found lumbar SNAGs reduced low back pain in the short term, and a 2024 placebo-controlled trial found upper back Reverse NAGs helped neck and upper back pain. Benefits are strongest combined with exercise.
Safety
- We screen the neck carefully before any neck technique.
- We use lighter glides with osteoporosis.
- We avoid the upper neck if it may be unstable, for example after recent trauma or with rheumatoid arthritis.
- If a SNAG causes pain or dizziness, we stop.
Frequently asked questions
What does SNAG stand for?
Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glide: a sustained glide along the natural angle of the spine's small joints.
What is the difference between a SNAG and a NAG?
A SNAG is held while you move. A NAG is a gentle rhythmic glide while you sit still.
Is it the same as cracking my back?
No. There is no thrust or cracking.
Can I do SNAGs myself?
Yes, many SNAGs have a self-treatment version we teach you.
Related pages
Written and clinically reviewed by Jacob Kurian, PT, MSPT, CMP, DPT, Certified Mulligan Practitioner, Enhanced Physical Therapy, Mineola NY. Last updated October 14, 2026.