After removing a cast, a patient presents with decreased ankle dorsiflexion. What mobilization should the therapist perform to restore movement?

The correct approach for restoring dorsiflexion after removing a cast involves performing a posterior glide of the talocrural joint. Dorsiflexion requires the tibia to move forward over the talus, which creates a need for posterior translation of the talus in relation to the tibia and fibula. By applying a posterior glide, the therapist facilitates the necessary movement of the joint surfaces, thereby promoting increased dorsiflexion range.

In the case of the other options, the anterior glide would assist in plantarflexion rather than dorsiflexion, while lateral and medial glides would not directly address the specific movement required for improving dorsiflexion at the talocrural joint. Therefore, the posterior glide directly supports the restoration of the required ankle mobility after a period of immobilization.