Literature review and update of lower limb neural mobilization

Abstract

Objectives: summarize the available literature descriptions of neural mobilization (NM) techniques and neural provocation tests (NPT) for the Lower Limb (LL). 

Material and Methods: compilation of data was performed in May 2016 using MEDLINE data base, Google Scholar and the library of the European University of Madrid. After application of inclusion/exclusion criterions 5 books and 14 journal publications where found to be of interest and used during data extraction.

Results: a list of 8 different LLNM techniques are applied in a rhythmic alternating oscillatory cycle fashion, starting in the initial position from where the therapist proceeds to move the limb in order to achieve a final position.  LL NPTs are useful tools for differential diagnose and selecting the proper LLNM procedure. There is no consensus about the time frame of repetition intervals or amount of tensile strength during NPT never the less it is found to normally be performed at a rate of 2-4 seconds per complete cycle of movement, during 1-5 minutes, 3-5 times a week.

Conclusions: LLNM treatment techniques all thou increasingly popular in clinical practice are found to be frugally described and lack proper standardization in regards to therapeutic dosification.