Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Basic Science

Neurodynamic tension techniques are beneficial in reducing the intrinsic pressures on the neural tissue in symptomatic subjects. However, its effect on asymptomatic subjects still uncertain, so the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of five neurodynamic tension techniques on H reflex and H/M ratio of sciatic nerve in normal asymptomatic subjects. Materials and Methods: Hundred subjects participated in this study, their age ranged between 20-30 years, BMI ranged 19-25 Kg/m2. Subjects were assigned into five groups (A, B, C, D and E) and were divided equally, Group A received only slump technique (slider), group B received only piriformis technique (new innovation of neural mobilization technique that utilize a stretching exercise), and group C received only slump technique (tensioner), group D received only straight leg raising (distal slider) and group E received only straight leg raising technique (proximal slider). Every participant was evaluated by measuring H reflex and H/M ratio using Schwarzer topas EMG machine before neurodynamic tension techniques (pre technique) and after neurodynamic tension techniques (post I), and after neurodynamic tension techniques with oscillation (post II). Results: The data was analyzed using 2MANOVA with repeated measures3 and the results revealed that there was a significant decrease in H reflex latency and increase in H/M ratio of sciatic nerve after application of neurodynamic tension techniques (when p < 0.05). Conclusion: all neurodynamic tension techniques have a significant improvement in H reflex latency and H/M ratio on sciatic nerve while piriformis technique was the best one so we can use neurodynamic tension technique as a prophylactic treatment for subjects who are susceptible to have sciatica due to their life style

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