Original Research Article
Year: 2023 | Month: February | Volume: 13 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 44-49
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20230208
Immediate Effect of Neural Tissue Mobilization on Tibial Nerve Mobility in Individuals with Flatfeet
Batul A Kaydawala1, Megha S Sheth2
1Post-graduate student, SBB College of Physiotherapy, Ahmedabad
2Lecturer, SBB College of Physiotherapy, Ahmedabad
Corresponding Author: Batul A Kaydawala
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Tarsal tunnel syndrome is compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. Individuals with flatfeet are prone to develop tarsal tunnel syndrome as there is outward tilting of heel which flattens the medial arch. Neural tissue mobilization is a manipulative technique by which neural tissues are moved and stretched either by movement relative to their surroundings or tension development. The aim of the study was to see the effect of neural tissue mobilization on tibial nerve mobility in subjects with flat feet.
Methodology: An experimental study was conducted on twenty four participants,18-30 years of age, with bilateral flatfeet by positive navicular test with no symptoms. Individuals with symptoms, severe hamstring tightness, and recent ankle sprain were excluded. Straight leg raise (SLR) was performed by therapist on one leg, till a stretching sensation distal to knee in the area of tibial nerve was observed. Once symptoms appeared double ended sliders targeting knee and ankle were given, 3 repetitions on any side. The other limb was used as a control limb. Results were noted in the form of range of motion (ROM) of SLR and compared using independent sample t test.
Result: Difference in mean SLR between both groups(19+1.3,t=6.25,p<0.001,CI=12.28 to 23.96) was statistically significant.
Conclusion: Neural tissue mobilization can be given as an intervention to improve SLR range of motion in individuals with flat feet. Further studies can be done to see prevention of compression of tibial nerve in individuals with flat feet with neural mobilization.
Key words: Flatfoot, neural tissue mobilization, tibial nerve