Effect of Neurodynamic Mobilization in Patients With Lumbar Disc Herniation

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the effects of neurodynamic mobilization on pain intensity, normal joint motion, neurodynamics, functional level, and disability in patients with lumbar disc herniation.

Background: Low back pain is a major cause of disability worldwide, and due to the limited effectiveness of current treatments, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of neurodynamic mobilization technique on pain intensity, range of motion, neurodynamics, functional status, and disability in patients. Methods: Thirty-seven patients were randomized to control or mobilization group. Participants in the control group received a conventional therapy for 20 treatment sessions, and those in the mobilization group were treated neurodynamic mobilization in addition to the electro/thermal therapy program twice a week for 4 consecutive weeks. Pain level at rest and during activity was recorded with a Visual Analog Scale. Active lumbar flexion, extension, and lateral flexion were measured with a universal goniometer. Neurodynamic mobility was evaluated using neurodynamic tests. The functional status was assessed with the 30-second chair stand test and disability was evaluated with the Bournemouth Questionnaire. 2x2 repeated measures ANOVA models were used to determine within and between group differences.