Neural Mobilization Q&A

Nerve mobilization serves as a treatment method within a custom pain management program. It is a specialized approach in physical therapy aimed at addressing persistent pain stemming from the compression of specific nerves in the body.

During nerve mobilization treatment, gentle pressure is applied directly to the compressed nerve to facilitate its movement within the protective nerve sheath. These techniques serve the purpose of pinpointing the pain’s origin and restoring equilibrium to the nervous system. Basic exercises are another component used to mobilize your nerves, which can help alleviate irritation or pain and enhance your range of motion.

Nerve mobilization techniques involve gently maneuvering the nerve through repetitive motions. These movements transition the nerve from a relaxed or slack position to a state of mild tension or a continuous motion without placing undue stress on the nerve. A common condition in which nerve mobilization is applied is sciatica, a result of compression on the sciatic nerve. Compression can lead to side effects such as nerve spasms and painful tissue inflammation.

Nerve mobilization, in essence, involves a process of enabling the nervous system to glide smoothly and unrestrictedly throughout the body, thus relieving compression-related issues.

Neural gliding and neural flossing are terms for some of the most effective neural mobilization techniques. These methods involve neural stretching as a means of mobilization, and they are typically implemented through manual manipulation or therapeutic exercises.

The fundamental concept behind neural mobilization is to induce movement of the nerve about surrounding structures, ultimately to alleviate symptoms. Nerve flossing exercises are generally fairly consistent in their process, yet multiple nerves can be mobilized.

This approach has shown promise in improving both pain and disability for patients who are experiencing nerve-related issues in the lower back and legs. Neural mobilization has emerged as an effective treatment modality for various neuromusculoskeletal conditions, including but not limited to conditions affecting the nerves in the lower back, arms, neck, and legs. Nerve flossing is a safe and effective option particularly when individuals follow the guidance provided by the specialists at Prime Physical Therapy.

Neural tension arises when nerves experience restrictions in their usual sliding and gliding within bodily tissues, and this issue can be addressed to release neural tension. The nervous system plays a crucial role in both pain perception and sensation, as well as muscle contraction for movement. Nerve gliding exercises are designed to create separation between the nerve and the surrounding structures, achieved by sliding the nerve through joint movements that extend the nerve bed. This stretching of the nerve bed concurrently elongates the nerve itself.

Nerve glides involve a specific movement pattern aimed at enhancing the nerve’s ability to navigate through the body’s tissues. These exercises are prescribed as part of a custom program by the specialists at Prime Physical Therapy because tolerance will vary among individuals.

The underlying principle behind nerve sliding exercises is to elongate the nerve bed at one joint while simultaneously shortening it at another, allowing the nerve to move without increasing strain. This process contributes to the release of neural tension and improved nerve function.

There are several strategies to improve nerve mobility, and the best ones will depend on the individual’s habits, prospective nerve problems, and particular concerns. The nervous system is a key link between the brain and the muscles, allowing information to be transmitted from the brain to the muscles via the spinal cord and back again.

Insufficient mobility, especially in the thoracic spine, may occasionally result in restricted neural system movement to the arms and a sensation of tightness. By warming up and engaging in mobilization exercises involving rotation and extension movements for this region, you can relieve tension and regain your complete functional range of motion.

The choice of exercises used to address irritation and pain depends on the specific location of the discomfort, aiming to target the nerves related to those particular symptoms.

Neural mobilization technique specialists are available at Prime Physical Therapy. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1161 NE Rice Rd Lee’s Summit, MO 64086. We serve patients from Lee’s Summit, MO, Blue Springs, MO, Independence, MO, Raytown, MO, Lake Lotawana, MO, Greenwood, MO, Grain Valley, MO, and surrounding areas!