Chronic neck pain, cervical radiculopathy, and tennis elbow are common conditions that can significantly impact daily life and mobility, especially for active individuals in areas like South Anchorage. These conditions often stem from nerve-related issues, causing pain, discomfort, and restricted movement. Recent research highlights the effectiveness of techniques like neural mobilization, Active Release Techniques (ART), and nerve flossing in addressing these challenges.
Neural Mobilization: A Game-Changer for Chronic Pain
Neural mobilization involves precise techniques designed to improve nerve gliding through its anatomical pathway. By reducing intraneural edema and enhancing blood flow, this approach helps restore the dynamic balance between neural tissues and their surroundings. A systematic review and meta-analysis have shown that integrating neural mobilization into routine physical therapy significantly improves mobility in patients with chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy. While the addition of neural mobilization did not show a substantial effect on pain, its impact on mobility underscores its role as a valuable therapeutic tool.
At Backcountry Health, we incorporate neural mobilization into treatment plans to address nerve-related symptoms effectively. Techniques like nerve flossing, a specific type of neural mobilization, are used to target trapped or compressed nerves. These techniques not only alleviate discomfort but also enhance functional recovery by promoting optimal nerve health.

Tennis Elbow and the Power of Nerve Techniques
Tennis Elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is another condition where nerve involvement plays a significant role. Recent research comparing different treatment modalities for Tennis Elbow found that neural mobilization led to the most significant improvements in range of motion (ROM) compared to Maitland mobilization and conventional treatment. This underscores the importance of addressing nerve entrapment and mechanosensitivity in managing this condition.
For patients with Tennis Elbow, we prescribe nerve flossing exercises alongside ART to relieve tension in the affected nerves and muscles. These techniques reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and enhance grip strength, providing comprehensive relief for this often-debilitating condition.
Active Release Techniques (ART): Precision Meets Relief
ART is a hands-on treatment approach that complements neural mobilization by addressing soft tissue restrictions. This technique targets adhesions and scar tissue that may contribute to nerve compression, restoring smooth movement between muscles, nerves, and surrounding structures. ART is particularly effective for conditions like neck pain, cervical radiculopathy, and Tennis Elbow, where muscle tightness and nerve entrapment often coexist.
By combining ART with neural mobilization and nerve flossing, we offer a multidimensional treatment approach tailored to each patient. These techniques work synergistically to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and support long-term recovery, ensuring that patients can return to their active lifestyles with confidence.
How These Techniques Fulfill Emerging Trends in Care
The growing focus on integrating neural mobilization and soft tissue therapies like ART aligns with the latest trends in managing nerve-related musculoskeletal conditions. These approaches address the root causes of pain and dysfunction, providing a non-invasive, effective alternative to pharmacological treatments. At Backcountry Health, we stay at the forefront of these trends by prescribing exercises and techniques that empower patients to take an active role in their recovery.
For example, nerve flossing exercises can be performed at home, making them a convenient addition to any rehabilitation program. These exercises not only extend the benefits of in-office treatments but also help patients maintain their progress between visits. Similarly, ART sessions target specific areas of restriction, ensuring precise and lasting results.

A Path to Active Living
Whether you're dealing with chronic neck pain, cervical radiculopathy, or Tennis Elbow, our innovative techniques are designed to help you move better and feel better. By addressing both neural and muscular components, we provide a comprehensive approach to recovery that goes beyond symptom relief. Our goal is to restore mobility, reduce pain, and empower you to enjoy an active, fulfilling life.
If you're ready to explore how neural mobilization, ART, and nerve flossing can transform your recovery journey, contact Backcountry Health today. Let's work together to unlock your full potential and get you back to doing what you love.

Sources:
López-Pardo, M. J., Calvache-Mateo, A., Martín-Núñez, J., Heredia-Ciuró, A., López-López, L., Valenza, M. C., & Cabrera-Martos, I. (2024). Routine Physical Therapy with and without Neural Mobilization in Chronic Musculoskeletal Neck Disorders with Nerve-Related Symptoms: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Healthcare, 12(12), 1225. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12121225
Chanchal Jain, Manu Goyal, Saumya Kothiyal,Efficacy of neural mobilization and Maitland accessory mobilization in patients with tennis elbow- randomized controlled trial, Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, Volume 38, 2024, Pages 525-533, ISSN 1360-8592, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2024.01.013. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1360859224000287)
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