Neurodynamics
Article by John Miller
What is Neurodynamics?
We all know that your joints move, and your muscles contract and stretch. But did you know that your nerve tissue also needs to move freely and unimpeded?
If your neural tissue is impeded, then pain or restriction of your nerve movement is a common result. The adverse neural tension can result in nerve pain and limited motion.
Neural Tension Treatment
A neurodynamics trained physiotherapist can assess your neurodynamics in their clinic. They will use a series of neural tension tests which will identify:
- Which nerves have adverse neural tension?
- Where your nerve is impeded?
Neural Tension Treatment
The good news is that you can quite quickly regain your full neural mobility. With an accurate assessment and treatment of the structure causing the adverse neural tension, you will quickly normalise your movement and provide nerve pain relief. Often this nerve pain relief is instantaneous!
What Conditions Commonly Develop Adverse Neural Tension?
Common examples of structures that can impede a nerve’s movement include:
- Back Pain, e.g. Bulging disc
- Sciatica
- Hamstring Pain
- Calf Pain
- Neck Pain
- Neck Arm Pain
- Shoulder Pain
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Tennis Elbow
- Pinched Nerve
Neurodynamics vs Nerve Stretches
Interestingly, neural mobilisation as a treatment doesn’t actually involve nerve stretching itself. Excessive nerve stretching can actually damage your nerves!
Rather than stretch your restricted nerve, your physiotherapist will assess you to discover any potential structures that are causing your nerves to be impeded. They will then treat that structure and retest your neurodynamics until your full neural mobility is restored. The upside is that not only will your nerve move freely, but your nerve pain will also disappear!
Research Support for the Neurodynamics Concept
The neurodynamics or neuro mobilisation concept is originally based on the research by physiotherapists Michael Shacklock and David Butler. Over the past 20 years, further researchers such as Dr Michel Coppieters and Dr Alf Brief have added to the volume of scientific research supporting the hypothesis that your nerve tissue also requires full movement to remain for full pain-free function.
“Essentially, the entire nervous system is a continuous structure, and it moves and slides in the body as we move, and the movement is related to critical physiological processes such as blood flow to neurones. This movement is quite dramatic, and it is not hard to imagine that fluid such as blood in the nerve bed, a constricting scar, inflammation around the nerve or a nerve having to contend with arthritic changes or proximity to an unstable joint could have damaging effects, some of which could lead to pain.”
“Neurodynamics is an innovative management tool which involves conservative decompression of nerves, various neural mobilising techniques and patient education techniques. Neurodynamics offers a fresh understanding and management strategies for common syndromes such as plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, nerve root disorders, carpal tunnel syndromes and spinal pain.”
“Neuro mobilisation is a method of conservative treatment of disorders of neural tissue. The rationale for using neuro mobilisation in treating musculoskeletal conditions is based on in vivo and in vitro studies that point to the high efficacy of neuro mobilization procedures. Appropriate use of neuro mobilization procedures depends on excellent knowledge of normal and pathological anatomy, differences between individual etiological factors, development of disease and symptom variability.” Michael Shacklock
Shacklock M (1995) Neurodynamics. Physiotherapy 81: 9-16. 2.
Shacklock M (2005) Clinical Neurodynamics: a new system of musculoskeletal treatment, Elsevier, Oxford, UK.
Neurodynamics Training Courses
Maximising Your Health with Physiotherapy Treatment
Exploring Physiotherapy Treatment for Pain and Injury
Physiotherapy treatment shines as a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with illnesses, injuries, or disabilities. Physiotherapists proactively utilise an array of techniques, including exercises, manual therapies, and soft tissue manipulation. Their professional skills extends to educating patients on managing pain, facilitating injury recovery, and retaining autonomy in daily functions.
Acute and Sub-Acute Injury Management
Physiotherapy treatment strategies are meticulously designed to address both acute and sub-acute injuries. With a focus on joint mobilisation, manipulation, and targeted soft tissue work, physiotherapists ensure each patient embarks on an efficient path to recovery. Supportive devices such as strapping, taping, and braces often complement these techniques.
Incorporating Alternative Therapies
In their holistic approach, many physiotherapists incorporate alternative methods like acupuncture and dry needling to augment pain relief and muscle function. Tailored physiotherapy exercises, ranging from stretching to Swiss ball workouts, are prescribed to meet the diverse needs of patients.
Specialised Physiotherapy Treatment
Specialised services within physiotherapy cater to specific groups and needs. Sports physiotherapy, women's and men's health, and workplace physiotherapy are distinct areas that address the particular challenges faced by different patient populations. Electrotherapy and local modalities such as therapeutic ultrasound and TENS machines represent the another side of physiotherapy treatments.
Targeted Physiotherapy Treatment for Injury Recovery
For those facing acute or sub-acute injuries, physiotherapists provide immediate and effective treatments that target pain, swelling, and inflammation. They blend traditional methods with innovative techniques to foster healing and functional restoration.
Hands-On Techniques in Physiotherapy
The hands-on aspect of physiotherapy is fundamental, with practitioners employing joint mobilisation, manipulation, and massage to catalyse healing and reduce discomfort. Ongoing learning and collaboration with other health professionals ensure that physiotherapy care is both comprehensive and customised.
Support Through Taping and Bracing
Physiotherapists are adept at applying various taping methods and supportive braces to aid in the stabilisation and rehabilitation process. They assess and determine the most suitable support mechanisms for each individual's condition.
Exercise Prescription for Rehabilitation
A broad spectrum of exercises is at the heart of physiotherapy treatment plans. From enhancing muscle flexibility to improving balance and proprioception, physiotherapists deliver evidence-based exercise regimens aimed at optimising recovery and function.
Biomechanical Analysis for Customised Care
A thorough biomechanical assessment underpins the physiotherapeutic approach, guiding the development of personalised treatment plans. This detailed analysis ensures that interventions are accurately targeted to address specific issues.
Specialised Physiotherapy Treatment Modalities
Hydrotherapy and sports physiotherapy offer targeted treatment options for individuals with specific needs, from aquatic exercises to specialised programs for athletes. Vestibular physiotherapy is dedicated to resolving balance disorders and associated symptoms.
Gender-Specific and Workplace Physiotherapy
Addressing the unique health concerns of both men and women, gender-specific physiotherapy utilises techniques like pelvic floor exercises. In the workplace, physiotherapy focuses on preventing and managing job-related injuries, contributing to a healthier work environment.
Conclusion: The Journey to Wellness with Physiotherapy
In conclusion, physiotherapy treatment is a richly diverse field, providing individualised care and a broad range of techniques to support patients on their path to recovery. It's essential to engage with a professional physiotherapy team to develop a tailored approach for achieving personal health and wellness objectives.
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When Should You Commence Physiotherapy?
In severe cases, it is best to commence physiotherapy as soon as possible. However, it does vary from case to case. Your physiotherapist has some nifty tricks to improve your pain straight away.
If you are unsure what to do, please call us for advice. We’ll happily guide you in your time of need. Often a bit of reassurance is all that you will need.
How Much Treatment Will You Need?
After assessing your injury, your physiotherapist will discuss the injury severity with you and estimate the number of treatments needed. No two injuries are ever the same.
Your treatment will include techniques and exercises to regain your:
- joint, ligament and soft tissue mobility
- muscle strength, power and speed
- balance and proprioception
- prevention tips
- performance improvement.
What If You Delay Treatment?
Research tells us that symptoms lasting longer than three months become habitual and are much harder to solve. This can lead to nastier conditions. The sooner you get on top of your symptoms, the better your outcome.
All injuries are different, and little variations can significantly improve your recovery rate. Stiff joints or muscles may need some range of movement exercises. Other injuries may require massage or particular strengthening exercises.
Seek professional guidance promptly for your best outcome.
