What is a Nerve? 

Nerves are vital components of the body's intricate communication network, serving as messengers that transmit signals between the brain, spinal cord, and various body parts. Composed of specialized cells called neurons, nerves carry both sensory information (such as touch, pain, and temperature) from the periphery to the central nervous system and motor commands from the central nervous system to muscles and organs.

Nerves are delicate structures protected by connective tissue layers. They consist of bundles of nerve fibers, each enveloped by connective tissue called endoneurium. Several nerve fibers form fascicles, which are further enveloped by perineurium. Finally, multiple fascicles are grouped together and surrounded by epineurium, creating a cohesive nerve structure.

What is Nerve Mobilization?

Nerve mobilization, also known as neural mobilization or neurodynamic techniques, is a specialized therapy that focuses on optimizing the movement and function of nerves. This holistic approach involves carefully applied techniques to enhance the mobility and glide of nerves throughout their anatomical pathways. By ensuring adequate nerve mobility, nerve mobilization can promote improved neural function, muscle activity, and overall well-being.

Nerve mobilization techniques typically involve flossing the nerve to free it up from the surrounding tissue. Here at Body Politic Physical Therapy, we use a more direct approach which is to manually mobilize the nerve in the exact locations where it may have adhered. This method is faster, more efficient, and causes much less inflammation in the nervous system.

This technique was adopted from Dr. Justin Lin of Rehab and Revive Physical Therapy on the border of Tustin and Irvine, CA.

What Conditions Does Nerve Mobilization Treat?

Nerve mobilization has shown promising results in managing various conditions related to nerve dysfunction and impaired neural mobility. Let's explore some common conditions that can benefit from nerve mobilization techniques:

• Nerve Entrapment Syndromes: Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, and thoracic outlet syndrome involve the compression or entrapment of nerves, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. Nerve mobilization can help relieve these symptoms by restoring normal nerve glide and reducing pressure on the affected nerves. Additionally, it can improve flexibility and mobility in the affected areas, allowing for better function and reduced discomfort.

• Peripheral Neuropathies: Peripheral neuropathies are characterized by damage to the peripheral nerves, resulting in symptoms like pain, sensory disturbances, and motor weakness. Nerve mobilization can aid in the management of peripheral neuropathies by improving nerve mobility, reducing neural adhesions, and promoting optimal neural health. This can lead to increased flexibility and improved strength, enabling individuals to engage in activities with greater ease.

• Nerve Hypersensitivity: Conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and fibromyalgia are associated with heightened nerve sensitivity, leading to chronic pain and dysfunction. Nerve mobilization techniques can help desensitize the nerves, reduce pain, and restore normal neural function. By addressing nerve hypersensitivity, nerve mobilization can improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate discomfort in areas such as the back and neck. This can enhance overall mobility and quality of life.

• Flexibility and Mobility Issues: Nerve mobilization plays a crucial role in addressing flexibility and mobility limitations. Restricted nerve glide and neural tension can contribute to stiffness and limited range of motion. By gently mobilizing the nerves and reducing neural adhesions, nerve mobilization can enhance flexibility, increase joint mobility, and improve overall movement patterns. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions such as stiff joints, muscle imbalances, or postural issues.

• Weakness and Muscle Imbalances: Nerve dysfunction and restricted neural mobility can also lead to muscle weakness and imbalances. Nerve mobilization techniques can help stimulate and optimize neural communication, leading to improved muscle recruitment and function. By addressing underlying nerve issues, nerve mobilization can help restore strength, correct imbalances, and enhance overall physical performance.

• Back Pain and Neck Pain: Nerve mobilization can be an effective complementary treatment for back pain and neck pain. By releasing tension in the nerves and promoting optimal neural mobility, it can alleviate pain associated with nerve compression or irritation. Additionally, nerve mobilization can improve spinal flexibility, reduce muscle tightness, and enhance postural alignment, thereby reducing strain on the back and neck and promoting a healthier spine.

Who Would Benefit from Nerve Mobilization? 

Nerve mobilization is a versatile treatment approach that can benefit a wide range of individuals, including:

• Individuals with Nerve-related Pain: Those experiencing pain or discomfort stemming from nerve entrapment, peripheral neuropathies, or nerve hypersensitivity can find relief through nerve mobilization techniques. Some of these conditions include sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, cervicogenic headache, unexplained stress, plantar fasciitis, elbow pain, neck stiffness, upper back pain, and 

• Athletes and Active Individuals: Nerve mobilization can optimize neural function and enhance performance for athletes and individuals engaged in sports and physical activities. It can help prevent nerve-related injuries, improve range of motion, and expedite recovery.

• Individuals with Chronic Conditions: People with persistent pain conditions like arthritis, disc herniation and bulging disc, unstable knees, plantar fasciitis, neck stiffness, headache, IBS, carpal tunnel syndrome, or upper back pain may experience nerve-related symptoms. Nerve mobilization can be incorporated into their holistic treatment plan to alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and, in some cases, resolve their pain for good.

• Individuals Seeking Holistic Wellness: Nerve mobilization aligns with holistic principles by addressing the underlying causes of nerve dysfunction and promoting overall well-being. Those seeking a holistic approach to health can benefit from nerve mobilization as part of their comprehensive wellness strategy.

Conclusion

Nerve mobilization is a powerful therapeutic technique within the realm of holistic treatment. By focusing on optimizing nerve function, mobility, and glide, this specialized approach can help manage a range of conditions related to nerve dysfunction. From nerve entrapment syndromes to peripheral neuropathies and nerve hypersensitivity, nerve mobilization offers an effective and holistic solution.

If you are seeking effective nerve mobilization techniques for pain relief, our Irvine, CA clinic offers expert physical therapy services. Experience the benefits of holistic nerve mobilization and discover how it can improve nerve function and enhance physical well-being. Our specialized therapists provide advanced nerve mobilization therapy for nerve entrapment and compression, targeting neuropathic pain and promoting optimal healing. Whether you're looking for nerve mobilization techniques or seeking specialized care in Irvine, our clinic is dedicated to providing holistic approaches to pain management and empowering recovery through physical therapy. Visit us today and find relief.