Clinical Neurodynamics: Misconceptions and Fundamentals
Neurodynamics or neural mobilization have become a popular treatment for musculoskeletal disorders with a neural element. A problem is that clinicians are applying the approach as a default addition to physical treatment.
A common thought is: “If the nerve hurts, let’s mobilize it”. But neural mobilization is only a general technique because it does not target causal dysfunctions.
This is an introduction to the importance of specific dysfunctions and how to target them, as is usually done with musculoskeletal approaches.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss inclusion and exclusion criteria for Neural Mobilization.
- Review introduction to dysfunction categories.
- Demonstrate progressions: severe pain to athletic levels.
- Review resolution strategies.
This summarizes the main statement which is: Neural mobilization and neurodynamics are different. Neural mobilization moves nerves non-specifically. Neurodynamics is a diagnosis and treatment system based on movement dysfunctions of the nervous system.
MICHAEL SHACKLOCK DipPhysio, MAppSc, FACP NDS Instructor, founding director, principal Australia Michael received his graduate physiotherapy qualification at the Auckland School of Physiotherapy, New Zealand, in 1980. He converted this to a Masters degree at the University of South Australia in 1993. He was awarded a Fellow of the Australian College of Physiotherapists (Australian Physiotherapy Association) for his monograph and international best-seller textbook, Clinical Neurodynamics, Elsevier, Oxford, 2005. He has published two other books, moving in on Pain (Elsevier) and Biomechanics of the Nervous System: Breig Revisited. He has been on editorial boards of the journal Musculoskeletal Theory and Practice (formerly Manual Therapy) and the Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy and has taught at elite sports medicine facilities and sports clubs, universities, hospitals and private seminars around the world. His special interests are measurement of nervous system movement and integration of the nervous system with musculoskeletal function. His most valued interest is how to synthesize science and clinical practice using evidence and reasoning. Michael Shacklock is recognized as an international leader in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders with a neural aspect.
