Neurodynamic Assessment and Treatment: An Evidence-Based Approach – 02/09/2019

Course Description

Physical therapists commonly use neurodynamic techniques to examine and treat patients with a variety of nerve-related problems. New research is providing insight into the value of neurodynamic techniques for diagnosing and treating these conditions. This course will present and discuss the latest available research related to the diagnostic validity of neurodynamic tests, the benefits and harms of neurodynamic treatment for nerve-related problems, and clinical characteristics that may help select patients who are likely to improve with neurodynamic treatment. The lecture and lab format will help participants further develop and refine their thinking and manual skills related to neurodynamic testing and treatment techniques. A case study will provide an additional opportunity to discuss the clinical application of course material.

Objectives

Upon completion of this class, the participant will be able to:

• Discuss the proposed grading system for diagnosing nerve-related pain (peripheral neuropathic pain).
• Discuss the available evidence on the validity of using neurodynamic tests to diagnose peripheral neuropathic pain.
• Apply the neurodynamic tests for the median, radial, and ulnar nerves, the straight-leg-raise and slump tests, and the side-lying slump test and identify when a neurodynamic test is considered ‘positive’.
• Recognize strategies for determining how relevant a ‘positive’ neurodynamic test is to managing an individual patient’s condition.
• Incorporate the available evidence on the benefits and harms of neurodynamic treatment for nerve-related pain (peripheral neuropathic pain).
• Perform selected neurodynamic treatment techniques for patients with nerve-related pain (peripheral neuropathic pain).
• Discuss strategies for determining how to incorporate neurodynamic treatment into the overall management of an individual patient’s condition.