Neural mobilization for neuromusculoskeletal conditions
This systematic review, which includes the most recent RCTs, found that neural mobilization (NM) interventions had a positive effect on low back and neck pain with a neural component, although most of the studies had a high risk of bias. The existing evidence about the effect on other neuromusculoskeletal conditions did not allow the authors to reach definitive conclusions yet.
Neuromusculoskeletal conditions represent one of the most frequent sources of disability worldwide. Despite the purported physiological effects of NM, its effectiveness on treating these conditions remains unclear after previous reviews. Thus, the authors aimed to update the knowledge on the effect on NM by including the most recent RCTs.
40 RCTs with a total of 1759 participants concerning the effect of NM on pain, disability and function in chronic neuromusculoskeletal conditions were included. Risk of bias was performed according to GRADE guidelines.
Considering the analyzed studies and the corresponding levels of evidence, the authors found support for using NM in neuropathic low back and neck pain, tarsal tunnel syndrome and plantar heel pain. The effect on other included conditions remains unclear. Risk of bias was generally high across studies. The authors remind that evidence is still limited and new studies may change these recommendations.
> From: Basson et al., J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 47 (2017) 593-615(Epub ahead of print). All rights reserved to Journal of Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy. Click here for the online summary.
