Effectiveness of Adding Slider Neurodynamic Mobilization Technique to a Conventional Physical Therapy Program in Cervical Radiculopathy: A Randomized Control Trial

Background Cervical radiculopathy (CR) is caused by impingement or irritation of the cervical nerve roots. Neurodynamic mobilization (NDM) involves targeted combined movements to improve nerve mobility and sensitivity. [Purpose] This study investigated the effectiveness of adding the sliding NDM technique into a conventional physical therapy program on neck pain, disability, cervical range of motion (ROM), and electrophysiological function of the median nerve in patients with CR. [Methods] A double-blind randomized controlled trial was employed with 21 CR patients (19 females, 2 males; aged 30–50 years). Patients were randomly allocated either to the conventional group (n = 10), which received the conventional program (TENS, stretching, and isometric exercises), or the slider group (n = 11), which received the same program plus the sliding NDM of the median nerve for 12 sessions over four weeks. The visual analogue scale (VAS), the Arabic version of the neck disability index (NDI), the cervical range of motion (CROM) device, and the electromyogram (EMG) device were used to assess neck pain, disability, ROM, and EMG parameters, respectively. [Results] A significant within-group improvement in neck pain, disability, and cervical ROM was observed in both groups. However, group B showed greater percentage improvement in disability (52.69%) and extension ROM (19.16%). No significant differences were found in motor nerve conduction velocity or F-wave. Notably, the H-reflex revealed improvements in latency, amplitude, and H-ratio between groups. [Conclusion] Adding Sliding NDM technique to a conventional physical therapy program may enhance pain, functional recovery and nerve excitability in patients with CR.