nivelkierukoita

Nivelkierukoita, a Finnish term, translates to "joint spirals" or "joint coils." It refers to a concept found in some traditional Finnish folk healing practices, particularly those involving the manipulation of joints and bones. The idea is that through specific movements and pressures, often accompanied by verbalizations or incantations, blockages or misalignments within the joints can be released, restoring proper function and alleviating pain.

These practices are not part of modern medical science and are considered folk medicine. The practitioners of nivelkierukoita, often referred to as "parantaja" (healers), would typically work on specific joints like the knee, hip, or shoulder. The techniques are often described as gentle yet firm, aiming to guide the joint through a range of motion that encourages it to return to its natural alignment. The exact methods and terminology can vary significantly depending on the region and the individual practitioner.

While these methods lack scientific validation, they have been passed down through generations and remain a part of certain cultural traditions in Finland. Some individuals seek out these traditional healers for relief from musculoskeletal complaints, often when conventional medical treatments have not provided satisfactory results. The efficacy of nivelkierukoita is largely anecdotal and attributed by believers to a combination of physical manipulation and the healing intent of the practitioner.