Intermediate2 min readLast updated: 2026-06-10
Mitigation Blocks in SMC — Complete Guide
Master Mitigation Blocks — Order Blocks that have been partially filled/tested. Learn when they still hold value and when to avoid them.
What is a Mitigation Block?
A Mitigation Block is an Order Block that has already been tested/touched by price but didn't fully break. When price returns to an OB and reacts (partially fills), the OB becomes "mitigated" — its remaining power is reduced.
Mitigated = Weaker
Fresh, unmitigated Order Blocks are STRONGEST. Each time price returns and reacts, the OB loses significance. After 2-3 mitigations, the level is likely exhausted.
Fresh vs. Mitigated
| Status | Description | Trade Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh (Unmitigated) | Never been retested | Highest quality |
| 1x Mitigated | Tested once, held | Still tradeable |
| 2x Mitigated | Tested twice | Weak — caution |
| 3x+ Mitigated | Tested 3+ times | Avoid — likely to break |
How Mitigation Works
1. Bullish OB forms at 1.1000 (fresh)
2. Price rallies, then pulls back to OB
3. Price touches OB, bounces = 1st mitigation
4. Some institutional orders filled, but not all
5. Price rallies again, pulls back to OB again
6. 2nd touch = 2nd mitigation (weaker now)
7. Eventually: OB breaks (all orders filled/exhausted)
Rule: Trade the FIRST touch. Avoid 3rd+ touch.
Mitigation vs. Breaker
| Feature | Mitigation Block | Breaker Block |
|---|---|---|
| OB status | Tested but holding | Completely broken |
| Direction | Same as original | Flipped (opposite) |
| Trade | Same direction (weakening) | New direction |
| What happened | Price touched but respected | Price violated completely |
Trading Rules
- Always prefer fresh OBs over mitigated ones
- 1st mitigation = still valid if reaction was strong
- 2nd mitigation = only trade with strong confluence
- 3+ mitigations = avoid entirely
- If price barely reacts at mitigation = OB is dying
Related Topics
- Order Blocks — Fresh OB entries
- Breaker Blocks — When OBs break
- Fair Value Gap — FVG within OBs