Neural Manipulation (NM)

Principles of Neural Manipulation

• Nervous System Mobility:

  • Neural tissues, like any other tissues in the body, require the ability to move freely within their surroundings. Restrictions or adhesions can impair nerve function and cause pain or dysfunction.

• Neurodynamics:

  • Neurodynamics refers to the study of nerve movement and tension. NM practitioners assess and treat abnormal nerve tension and mobility to restore proper function.

• Relationship with Surrounding Tissues:

  • Nerves are closely associated with muscles, fascia, blood vessels, and bones. NM addresses the interrelationships between nerves and these surrounding structures, aiming to resolve any dysfunction.

• Subtle Palpation:

  • Practitioners use refined palpation techniques to detect disturbances in nerve mobility and function. This requires a deep understanding of anatomy and skilled hands-on techniques.

Techniques Used in Neural Manipulation

• Palpation and Assessment:

  • Practitioners palpate the fascia of the neural structures to identify areas of restriction or tension. They assess the mobility and elasticity of nerves’ fascia in relation to their surrounding tissues.

• Manual Release:

  • Techniques involve gentle manipulation to release adhesions and improve nerve mobility. This can include stretching, gliding, or mobilizing movements applied to the fascia of the nerves and their surrounding tissues.

• Neural Mobilization:

  • Involves specific movements to mobilize the fascia of the nerves along their pathways. This may help reduce nerve compression and enhance nerve function.

• Integration with Other Therapies:

  • NM is often integrated with other manual therapies, such as visceral manipulation or craniosacral therapy, to address complex patterns of dysfunction.

Benefits of Neural Manipulation

• Pain Relief:

  • NM may effectively improve chronic and acute pain, particularly in conditions where nerve entrapment or irritation is involved.

• Improved Function:

  • Restoring nerve mobility may enhance overall neural function, improving symptoms related to nerve dysfunction such as numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness.

• Enhanced Mobility:

  • By addressing neural restrictions, NM may improve overall physical mobility and flexibility.

• Systemic Health Benefits:

  • Proper neural function is essential for the optimal performance of all body systems. NM may contribute to improved systemic health by ensuring healthy neural pathways.

Conditions That May Improve with Neural Manipulation

• Peripheral Neuropathy:

  • Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, and thoracic outlet syndrome.

• Chronic Pain:

  • Conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and post-surgical pain.

• Musculoskeletal Disorders:

  • Neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, and hip pain, particularly when neural involvement is suspected.

• Headaches and Migraines:

  • Neural manipulation may help ameliorate headaches and migraines by addressing nerve tension and restrictions in the head and neck regions.

• Neurological Disorders:

  • Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke recovery, and Bell’s palsy.

Typical Neural Manipulation Session

• Initial Assessment:

  • A thorough history and physical examination to identify neural dysfunctions and areas of restriction.

• Palpation and Diagnosis:

  • Skilled palpation to assess nerve mobility, tension, and overall function.

• Treatment Application:

  • Application of specific manual techniques to mobilize and release neural tissues, tailored to the individual’s needs.

• Reassessment and Follow-up:

  • Re-evaluation of affected areas to monitor progress and plan further treatment. Patients may also be given exercises or lifestyle recommendations to support ongoing recovery.