Neural Mobilization Technique for Reducing Pain in Cervical Radiculopathy: A Narrative Review

Cervical radiculopathy is a common disorder resulted by nerve compression that cause pain in the neck and arm. The pain is the primary symptom that bothers people and forces towards seeking treatment. A technique called neural mobilization assists restoring normal nerve functions, improving nerve mobility, and decreasing pain sensitivity. Nerve mobilization is also called nerve-gliding or nerve-flossing. The purpose of this narrative review is to explore the effectiveness of neural mobilization technique in reducing pain symptom of cervical radiculopathy. Nine clinical studies were included in a narrative review method that concentrated on neural mobilization therapies in patients with cervical radiculopathy. The pain intensity outcomes measured by valid scales such the Visual Analog Scale, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire, Numerical Rating Scale. The findings suggest that neural mobilization refined cervical function and neural mechanosensitivity, while frequently decreased pain intensity and disability in cervical radiculopathy patients. Neural mobilization reliably reduces the severity of pain in patients with cervical radiculopathy, whether used alone or in combination with traditional physical therapy. Sliding techniques appear particularly effective for improving pain, however, variations in intervention protocols and brief follow-up periods limit definitive conclusions about long-term pain control.