Neurodynamic Techniques at KINETIKA
The nervous system is not a static structure. Nerves and their surrounding connective tissue move, glide, and stretch as you move your body. When a nerve becomes mechanically sensitive (due to inflammation, compression, or adherence to surrounding tissue) movement becomes painful and the nerve itself can restrict your range of motion.
Neurodynamic techniques are the clinical assessment and treatment of this nervous system mobility. At KINETIKA, we use them to differentiate neural from musculoskeletal pain sources and to systematically restore nerve mobility when it has become compromised.
Neural Tension Testing
Before treatment, your therapist uses standardised neurodynamic tests to assess the mechanical sensitivity of specific nerve pathways:
- Straight Leg Raise (SLR), assesses sciatic nerve mobility, commonly sensitised in lumbar disc herniation and true sciatica
- Slump Test, a more sensitive assessment of the entire neural tract from lumbar spine to foot
- Upper Limb Neurodynamic Tests (ULNT), assesses the median, radial, and ulnar nerves through the brachial plexus, relevant to cervical radiculopathy and thoracic outlet syndrome
- Prone Knee Bend, assesses femoral nerve mobility from the lumbar spine through the anterior thigh
Treatment Techniques
Neural Mobilisation (Sliding Techniques)
Rhythmic, oscillatory movements that alternate between increasing and decreasing tension in the nerve, creating a “sliding” or “flossing” effect at the nerve interface. This technique is used in acute or sensitised presentations where the nerve needs gentle mobilisation to reduce irritability and restore mobility.
Neural Tensioning
Progressive loading of the neural tract in its full excursion, used in subacute and chronic presentations to restore the nerve’s capacity to tolerate tension. Tensioning techniques are more aggressive than sliding and require careful clinical judgement regarding timing and dosage.
Combined Neural and Joint Mobilisation
Neural mobility and joint mobility are interdependent. Where nerve adhesions are contributing to restricted joint movement, your therapist may combine neurodynamic techniques with joint mobilisation to address both the neural and articular components of the restriction simultaneously.
Conditions We Treat
Neurodynamic techniques are indicated in sciatica and lumbar radiculopathy, cervical radiculopathy (arm pain from the neck), carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, piriformis syndrome with sciatic involvement, and chronic neural sensitivity following surgery or injury.
Home Program
Neural mobilisation exercises are among the most effective self-management tools for nerve-related pain. Your therapist will provide you with a precise home program (specific movements, positions, and repetition guidelines) to maintain the gains from treatment and reduce recurrence.
