Neurodynamic Mobilization for Cervical Radiculopathy

Effectiveness of Adding Neurodynamic Mobilization to Conventional Physiotherapy in Patients With Cervical Radiculopathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression or irritation of cervical nerve roots, leading to neck pain, arm pain, sensory disturbances, and functional limitations. This randomized controlled trial evaluated whether adding neurodynamic mobilization to conventional physiotherapy improves pain intensity and functional disability in individuals with cervical radiculopathy. Participants received either conventional physiotherapy alone or conventional physiotherapy combined with neurodynamic mobilization over a 5-week treatment period.

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition where a nerve in the neck becomes irritated or compressed. This can cause neck pain, pain that spreads into the arm, numbness, tingling, and difficulty performing daily activities. It can significantly affect a person's quality of life.

This study investigated whether adding a specific physiotherapy technique called neurodynamic mobilization to standard physiotherapy could improve recovery in patients with cervical radiculopathy.

A total of 50 participants took part in the study. They were randomly divided into two groups. One group received standard physiotherapy treatment only, while the other group received standard physiotherapy combined with neurodynamic mobilization techniques.

Both treatment programs were carried out over five weeks, with a total of 10 treatment sessions.

Participants were evaluated before and after treatment to measure pain levels and how much their neck condition affected daily activities. Pain was measured using a simple rating scale, and disability was measured using a questionnaire.

The results showed that both groups improved over time. However, the group that received the additional neurodynamic mobilization experienced greater reductions in pain and better improvement in daily function compared to the group that received standard physiotherapy alone.

The study suggests that adding neurodynamic mobilization may enhance the effectiveness of physiotherapy for people with cervical radiculopathy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18-65 years.
• Diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy.
• pain radiating to the upper limb.
• Presence of at least one neurological sign, including: Sensory deficit, or Muscle weakness, or Diminished reflexes.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous cervical spine surgery.
• Cervical myelopathy.
• Cervical fractures.
• Tumors affecting the cervical spine.
• Inflammatory disorders.
• Any contraindication to physiotherapy interventions.