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Rossetto G, Lopomo NF, Shaikh SZ. Longitudinal Movements and Stiffness of Lower Extremity Nerves Measured by Ultrasonography and Ultrasound Elastography in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Populations: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023:S0301-5629(23)00140-0. [PMID: 37331920 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2023.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
This study was aimed at analyzing the effectiveness of ultrasonography (US) and ultrasound elastography (UE) in evaluating longitudinal sliding and stiffness of nerves. In line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement, we analyzed 1112 publications (range: 2010-2021) extracted from MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science focusing on specific outcomes, including shear wave velocity (m/s), shear modulus (kPa), strain ratio (SR) and excursion (mm). Thirty-three papers were included and evaluated for overall quality and risk of bias. From the analysis of data concerning 1435 participants, mean shear wave velocity (SWV) in the sciatic nerve was 6.70 ± 1.26 m/s in controls and 7.51 ± 1.73 m/s in participants presenting with leg pain; in the tibial nerve, mean SWV was 3.83 ± 0.33 m/s in controls and 3.42 ± 3.53 m/s in participants presenting with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). The mean shear modulus (SM) was 20.9 ± 9.33 kPa for sciatic nerve, whereas it was an average of 23.3 ± 7.20 kPa for the tibial nerve. Considering 146 subjects (78 experimental, 68 controls) no significant difference was observed in SWV when comparing participants with DPN with controls (standard mean difference [SMD]: 1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54, 1.97), whereas a significant difference was observed in the SM (SMD: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.32, 2.25); furthermore, we found significant differences between left and right extremity nerves (SMD:1.14. 95% CI: 0.45, 1.83) among 458 participants (270 with DPN and 188 controls). No descriptive statistics are available for excursion because of the variability in participants and limb positions, whereas SR is considered only a semiquantitative outcome and therefore not comparable among different studies. Despite the presence of some limitations in study designs and methodological biases, on the basis of our findings, we can conclude that US and UE are effective methods in assessing longitudinal sliding and stiffness of lower extremity nerves in both symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Rossetto
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Summaiva Zareen Shaikh
- Department of Neuro-physiotherapy, SIA College of Health Sciences, College of Physiotherapy, Thane, India.
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López-de-Celis C, Izquierdo-Nebreda P, González-Rueda V, Cadellans-Arróniz A, Rodríguez-Sanz J, Bueno-Gracia E, Pérez-Bellmunt A. Short-Term Effects of Three Types of Hamstring Stretching on Length, Neurodynamic Response, and Perceived Sense of Effort-A Randomised Cross-Over Trial. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12101666. [PMID: 36295102 PMCID: PMC9605153 DOI: 10.3390/life12101666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Stretching techniques for hamstring muscles have been described both to increase muscle length and to evaluate nerve mechanosensitivity. Aim: We sought to evaluate the short-term effects of three types of hamstring stretching on hamstring length and report the type of response (neural or muscular) produced by ankle dorsiflexion and perceived sense of effort in asymptomatic subjects. Methods: A randomised cross-over clinical trial was conducted. A total of 35 subjects were recruited (15 women, 20 men; mean age 24.60 ± 6.49 years). Straight leg raises (SLR), passive knee extensions (PKE), and maximal hip flexion (MHF) were performed on dominant and non-dominant limbs. In addition, the intensity of the applied force, the type and location of the response to structural differentiation, and the perceived sensation of effort were assessed. Results: All stretching techniques increased hamstring length with no differences between limbs in the time*stretch interaction (p < 0.05). The perceived sensation of effort was similar between all types of stretching except MHF between limbs (p = 0.047). The type of response was mostly musculoskeletal for MHF and the area of more neural response was the posterior knee with SLR stretch. Conclusions: All stretching techniques increased hamstring length. The highest percentage of neural responses was observed in the SLR stretching, which produced a greater increase in overall flexibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos López-de-Celis
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Anatomy Group, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la Recerca a l’Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (C.L.-d.-C.); (J.R.-S.); Tel.: +34-93-504-20-00 (J.R.-S.)
| | - Pedro Izquierdo-Nebreda
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vanessa González-Rueda
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Anatomy Group, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la Recerca a l’Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aïda Cadellans-Arróniz
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jacobo Rodríguez-Sanz
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Anatomy Group, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (C.L.-d.-C.); (J.R.-S.); Tel.: +34-93-504-20-00 (J.R.-S.)
| | - Elena Bueno-Gracia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Albert Pérez-Bellmunt
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Anatomy Group, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
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3
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Ellis R, Richards N, Archer L, Whittington C, Mawston G. Assessing Sciatic Nerve Excursion and Strain with Ultrasound Imaging during Forward Bending. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2021; 47:2560-2569. [PMID: 34218969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2021.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Entrapment neuropathies affecting the sciatic nerve tract may adversely affect neural biomechanical features such as excursion and strain. There is a paucity of in vivo evidence examining the effects of forward bending upon sciatic nerve excursion and strain. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability of ultrasound imaging in measuring sciatic nerve excursion and strain during forward bending movements. Secondary aims were to quantify sciatic nerve excursion and strain during forward bending movements and to assess the relationship between sciatic nerve excursion and movements of the hip and lumbar spine. The reliability of measuring sciatic nerve excursion was high to excellent whilst measurement of sciatic nerve strain was moderate. The amount of hip flexion, during forward bending, was a strong predictor of sciatic nerve excursion. These findings will support clinicians in the assessment and treatment of entrapment neuropathies, in addition to providing a foundation for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Ellis
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Northcote, Auckland, New Zealand; Active Living and Rehabilitation: Aotearoa New Zealand, Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Northcote, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Nathan Richards
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Northcote, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Logan Archer
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Northcote, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Chris Whittington
- BioDesign Lab, School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Grant Mawston
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Northcote, Auckland, New Zealand; Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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4
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Alshami AM, Alshammari TK, AlMuhaish MI, Hegazi TM, Tamal M, Abdulla FA. Sciatic nerve excursion during neural mobilization with ankle movement using dynamic ultrasound imaging: a cross-sectional study. J Ultrasound 2021; 25:241-249. [PMID: 34036554 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-021-00595-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Ankle movement is used as a sensitizing maneuver for sciatica during neurodynamic techniques. In vivo studies on the sciatic nerve biomechanics associated with ankle movement during different positions of neighboring joints are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate sciatic nerve excursion during ankle dorsiflexion in different positions in a healthy population. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study. High-resolution dynamic ultrasound imaging was used to measure longitudinal excursion of the sciatic nerve in the posterior thigh of 27 healthy participants during ankle dorsiflexion in six positions of the neck, hip, and knee. Both the long and short distance of the nerve excursion were measured. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used for data analysis, and Eta squared (r) was used to quantify the effect size. RESULTS Ankle dorsiflexion resulted in distal sciatic nerve excursion that was significantly higher in positions in which the knee was extended (median 0.7-1.6 mm) than in positions in which the knee was flexed (median 0.5-1.4 mm) (P ≤ 0.049, r ≥ 0.379). There were no significant differences in nerve excursion between positions where the neck was neutral compared with positions where the neck was flexed (P ≥ 0.710, r ≤ 0.072) or between positions where the hip was neutral compared with positions where the hip was flexed (P ≥ 0.456, r ≤ 0.143). CONCLUSION The positions of adjacent joints, particularly the knee, had an impact on the excursion of the sciatic nerve in the thigh during ankle movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali M Alshami
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 2435, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Tadhi K Alshammari
- Physical Therapy Department, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona I AlMuhaish
- Department of Radiology, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, PO BOX 1982, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tarek M Hegazi
- Department of Radiology, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, PO BOX 1982, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahbubunnabi Tamal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, PO Box 1982, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fuad A Abdulla
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 2435, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
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5
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Effect of ankle dorsiflexion on displacement and strain in the tibial nerve and biceps femoris muscle at the posterior knee during the straight leg raise: Investigation of specificity of nerve movement. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2020; 75:105003. [PMID: 32335471 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2020.105003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A structural differentiation maneuver has been proposed to differentiate between muscle and nerve involvement during the straight leg raise test. However, to date, the mechanical specificity of this maneuver for the tibial nerve at the posterior knee has not been tested. The aim of this study was to investigate the specificity of ankle dorsiflexion as a differentiation maneuver between the tibial nerve and the biceps femoris muscle at the posterior knee during the straight leg raise in cadavers. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out. In fresh frozen cadavers, with microstrain devices and Vernier calipers, strain and excursion in the tibial nerve and distal biceps femoris muscle were measured during ankle dorsiflexion at 0°, 30°, 60° and 90° of hip flexion of the straight leg raise. FINDINGS Ankle dorsiflexion resulted in significant distal excursion and increased strain in the tibial nerve (p < 0.05) whilst the muscle was not affected by the dorsiflexion (p > 0.05) at all hip flexion angles. INTERPRETATION Ankle dorsiflexion was mechanically specific between the tibial nerve and biceps femoris during the straight leg raise. This study adds to evidence that, in certain circumstances, dorsiflexion may be used in differentiation of nerve and muscle disorders in the posterior knee.
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Bueno-Gracia E, Pérez-Bellmunt A, Estébanez-de-Miguel E, López-de-Celis C, Shacklock M, Caudevilla-Polo S, González-Rueda V. Differential movement of the sciatic nerve and hamstrings during the straight leg raise with ankle dorsiflexion: Implications for diagnosis of neural aspect to hamstring disorders. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2019; 43:91-95. [PMID: 31374476 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2019.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In hamstrings injuries, sciatic nerve and muscle disorders can coexist. Therefore, differential diagnosis to include or exclude nerve involvement is an important aspect of evaluation. The objective of this paper is to investigate the mechanical behaviour of the sciatic nerve and biceps femoris muscle in the proximal thigh with the ankle dorsiflexion manoeuvre at different degrees of hip flexion during the straight leg raise in cadavers. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out. Linear displacement transducers were inserted into the sciatic nerve and the biceps femoris muscle of 11 lower extremities from 6 fresh cadavers to measure potential strain of both structures during ankle dorsiflexion at 0°, 30°, 60° and 90° of hip flexion during the straight leg raise. Excursion was also measured with a digital calliper. RESULTS Ankle dorsiflexion resulted in significant strain and distal excursion of the sciatic nerve at all ranges of hip flexion during the straight leg raise (p < 0.05). In contrast, the ankle movement did not affect the strain in biceps femoris at any position of the hip (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION Ankle dorsiflexion at different degrees of hip flexion during the straight leg raise produces changes in the strain and excursion of the sciatic nerve in the upper thigh. In contrast, the biceps femoris muscle at the same location was not affected by ankle movement. These findings show differential behaviour between the nerve and muscle with ankle dorsiflexion at this location that could be used as differential diagnosis in posterior hip pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Albert Pérez-Bellmunt
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Carlos López-de-Celis
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Vanesa González-Rueda
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Pagnez MAM, Corrêa LA, Almeida RS, Meziat-Filho NA, Mathieson S, Ricard F, Nogueira LAC. The Variation of Cross-Sectional Area of the Sciatic Nerve in Flexion-Distraction Technique: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2019; 42:108-116. [PMID: 31029470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to compare the cross-sectional area of the sciatic nerve in different positions of spinal manipulation using flexion-distraction technique. METHODS Thirty healthy participants were assessed in 6 different flexion-distraction technique positions of varying lumbar, knee, and ankle positions. Participants stood in the following 3 positions with the lumbar in the neutral position: (A) with knee extended, (B) with knee flexed, and (C) with the knee extended and ankle dorsiflexion. Participants then stood in the following 3 positions with the lumbar flexed: (D) with the knee extended, (E) with the knee flexed, and (F) with knee extended and ankle dorsiflexion. The cross-sectional area (CSA) of the sciatic nerve was measured with ultrasound imaging in transverse sections in the posterior medial region of the left thigh. The CSA values measured at each position were compared. RESULTS We analyzed 180 ultrasound images. The cross-sectional area of the sciatic nerve (in mm2) in position B (mean; standard deviation) (59.71-17.41) presented a higher mean cross-sectional area value compared with position D (51.18-13.81; P =.005), position F (48.71-15.16; P = .004), and position C (48.37-16.35; P = .009). CONCLUSION The combination of knee extension and ankle dorsiflexion reduced the CSA of the sciatic nerve, and flexing the knee and keeping the ankle in the neutral position increased it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Alice Mainenti Pagnez
- Physiotherapy Department, Rehabilitation Science Postgraduate Program, Augusto Motta University Centre, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Academic Department, Madrid School of Osteopathy, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Leticia Amaral Corrêa
- Physiotherapy Department, Rehabilitation Science Postgraduate Program, Augusto Motta University Centre, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renato Santos Almeida
- Physiotherapy Department, Rehabilitation Science Postgraduate Program, Augusto Motta University Centre, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Physiotherapy Department, Serra dos Órgãos University Centre, Teresópolis, Brazil
| | - Ney Armando Meziat-Filho
- Physiotherapy Department, Rehabilitation Science Postgraduate Program, Augusto Motta University Centre, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Stephanie Mathieson
- Musculoskeletal Health Sydney, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney New South Wales, Australia
| | - François Ricard
- Academic Department, Madrid School of Osteopathy, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leandro Alberto Calazans Nogueira
- Physiotherapy Department, Rehabilitation Science Postgraduate Program, Augusto Motta University Centre, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Physiotherapy Department, Federal Institute of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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8
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Balius R, Susín A, Morros C, Pujol M, Pérez-Cuenca D, Sala-Blanch X. Gemelli-obturator complex in the deep gluteal space: an anatomic and dynamic study. Skeletal Radiol 2018; 47:763-770. [PMID: 29218390 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-017-2831-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the behavior of the sciatic nerve during hip rotation at subgluteal space. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sonographic examination (high-resolution ultrasound machine at 5.0-14 MHZ) of the gemelli-obturator internus complex following two approaches: (1) a study on cadavers and (2) a study on healthy volunteers. The cadavers were examined in pronation, pelvis-fixed position by forcing internal and external rotations of the hip with the knee in 90° flexion. Healthy volunteers were examined during passive internal and external hip rotation (prone position; lumbar and pelvic regions fixed). Subjects with a history of major trauma, surgery or pathologies affecting the examined regions were excluded. RESULTS The analysis included eight hemipelvis from six fresh cadavers and 31 healthy volunteers. The anatomical study revealed the presence of connective tissue attaching the sciatic nerve to the structures of the gemellus-obturator system at deep subgluteal space. The amplitude of the nerve curvature during rotating position was significantly greater than during resting position. During passive internal rotation, the sciatic nerve of both cadavers and healthy volunteers transformed from a straight structure to a curved structure tethered at two points as the tendon of the obturator internus contracted downwards. Conversely, external hip rotation caused the nerve to relax. CONCLUSION Anatomically, the sciatic nerve is closely related to the gemelli-obturator internus complex. This relationship results in a reproducible dynamic behavior of the sciatic nerve during passive hip rotation, which may contribute to explain the pathological mechanisms of the obturator internal gemellus syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon Balius
- Consell Català de l'Esport, Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain. .,Sports Medicine Department, Clínica Diagonal, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Antonio Susín
- Math Department, UPC-BarcelonaTech, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carles Morros
- Anesthesiology, Reanimation and Pain Therapy, Clínica Diagonal, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montse Pujol
- Consell Català de l'Esport, Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain.,Facultad de Fisioteràpia, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés, Spain
| | - Dolores Pérez-Cuenca
- Anesthesiology, Reanimation and Pain Therapy, Clínica Diagonal, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Sala-Blanch
- Anatomy and Embryology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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Neto T, Freitas SR, Andrade RJ, Gomes J, Vaz J, Mendes B, Firmino T, Nordez A, Oliveira R. Sciatic nerve stiffness is not changed immediately after a slump neurodynamics technique. Muscles Ligaments Tendons J 2018; 7:583-589. [PMID: 29387655 DOI: 10.11138/mltj/2017.7.3.583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Neurodynamics techniques aim to assess and improve neural mechanosensitivity. However, there is no in vivo evidence regarding the mechanical effects of these techniques in the nerve stiffness. This study examined the immediate effects of a slump neurodynamics technique in the sciatic nerve shear wave velocity (SWV. i.e. an index of stiffness) using ultrasound-based elastography. Methods Fourteen healthy participants were included in this experiment. Sciatic SWV and ankle passive torque were measured during a passive ankle dorsiflexion motion (2°/s), before and immediately after 3 minutes of slump neurodynamics technique, randomly applied to one lower limb. The contralateral limb served as control. Results The slump intervention did not change the sciatic SWV (P=0.78), nor the dorsiflexion passive torque (P=0.14), throughout the ankle dorsiflexion motion. Excellent values of intra-rater repeatability (ICC=0.88, 0.68-0.96), and low values of standard error of measurement (0.59 m/s, 0.35-1.15m/s), were observed for the SWV measurements. Conclusions The sciatic nerve stiffness of healthy participants did not change immediately after a slump neurodynamics technique, suggesting a compliance of the neural tissue to tensile loads. However, these results ought to be confirmed using other neurodynamics techniques and in other populations (e.g. peripheral neuropathies). Level of evidence III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Neto
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Lunex University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Differdange, Luxembourg
| | - Sandro R Freitas
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Benfica LAB, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ricardo J Andrade
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,University of Nantes, Laboratory "Movement, Interactions, Performance" (EA 4334), Faculty of Sport Sciences, Nantes, France
| | - João Gomes
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Vaz
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Benfica LAB, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bruno Mendes
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Benfica LAB, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Telmo Firmino
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Benfica LAB, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Antoine Nordez
- University of Nantes, Laboratory "Movement, Interactions, Performance" (EA 4334), Faculty of Sport Sciences, Nantes, France
| | - Raúl Oliveira
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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10
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Kasehagen B, Ellis R, Pope R, Russell N, Hing W. Assessing the Reliability of Ultrasound Imaging to Examine Peripheral Nerve Excursion: A Systematic Literature Review. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2018; 44:1-13. [PMID: 29100792 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2017.08.1886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound imaging (USI) is gaining popularity as a tool for assessing nerve excursion and is becoming an important tool for the assessment and management of entrapment neuropathies. This systematic review aimed to identify current methods and report on the reliability of using USI to examine nerve excursion and identify the level of evidence supporting the reliability of this technique. A systematic search of five electronic databases identified studies assessing the reliability of using USI to examine nerve excursion. Two independent reviewers critically appraised and assessed the methodological quality of the identified articles. Eighteen studies met the eligibility criteria. The majority of studies were of "moderate" or "high" methodological quality. The overall analysis indicated a "strong" level of evidence of moderate to high reliability of using USI to assess nerve excursion. Further reliability studies with consistency of reporting are required to further strengthen the level of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Kasehagen
- Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Richard Ellis
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rodney Pope
- Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicholas Russell
- Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Wayne Hing
- Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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11
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Szikszay T, Hall T, von Piekartz H. In vivo effects of limb movement on nerve stretch, strain, and tension: A systematic review. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2017; 30:1171-1186. [PMID: 28869435 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-169720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKROUND The mechanical behavior of the peripheral nervous system under elongation and tension has not been adequately established in vivo. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this review is to investigate the mechanical behavior of the peripheral nervous system in vivo. METHODS In vivo studies which evaluated the effects of limb movement and neurodynamic tests on peripheral nerve biomechanics were systematically searched in PubMed (Medline), the Cochrane Database, CINAHL, PEDro, Embase and Web of Science. Studies fulfilling the search criteria were assessed for methodological quality with a modified version of the Down & Blacks scale by two reviewers. RESULTS This review includes the results of 22 studies, of which 15 examined limb movement influencing the median nerve, four the sciatic nerve, two the tibial nerve; and one each the ulnar and peroneal nerves respectively. Substantial nerve longitudinal and transverse excursion and changes in diameter were reported. Despite this, increased nerve strain was not a major finding. CONCLUSION The heterogeneity of included studies, including wide variety of nerves tested, measurement location and joint position prevented comparisons between studies and also amalgamation of data. Limb movement induces complex biomechanical effects of which nerve elongation plays only a minor role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor Szikszay
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, University of Applied Science, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Toby Hall
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Harry von Piekartz
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, University of Applied Science, Osnabrück, Germany
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Marsico P, Tal-Akabi A, van Hedel HJA. The relevance of nerve mobility on function and activity in children with Cerebral Palsy. BMC Neurol 2016; 16:194. [PMID: 27717320 PMCID: PMC5054625 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-016-0715-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In children with cerebral palsy (CP), stiffness, caused by contractile and non-contractile structures, can influence motor performance. This study sought to determine whether the nerve mobility had a relevant impact on motor performance in children with CP. We hypothesized that a positive Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test, as well as smaller SLR hip angle, would relate to lower leg muscle strength, reduced motor capacity and less motor performance in children with CP. Methods We applied a cross-sectional analysis on data including SLR, leg muscle strength, Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66) and number of activity counts during daily life from thirty children with CP (6–18 years). We performed receiver operating characteristics and correlation analyses. Results Positive SLR test could distinguish well between children with low versus high muscle strength and GMFM-66 scores. The SLR hip angle correlated significant with the level of disability and with muscle strength. The correlation with the GMFM-66 and the activity counts was fair. Conclusion This study suggests that neural restriction of SLR is higher on functional and activity outcome than the measured SLR hip range of motion. Further studies should investigate weather improving nerve mobility can lead to an amelioration of function in children with CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Marsico
- Paediatric Rehab Research Group, Rehabilitation Centre for Children and Adolescents, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, CH-8910, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland. .,Children's Research Centre (CRC), University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiessstrasse 75, CH-8032, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Amir Tal-Akabi
- Bern University of Applied Sciences, Health, Murtenstrasse 10, CH-3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Hubertus J A van Hedel
- Paediatric Rehab Research Group, Rehabilitation Centre for Children and Adolescents, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, CH-8910, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland.,Children's Research Centre (CRC), University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiessstrasse 75, CH-8032, Zürich, Switzerland
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Kasehagen B, Ellis R, Mawston G, Allen S, Hing W. Assessing the Reliability of Ultrasound Imaging to Examine Radial Nerve Excursion. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2016; 42:1651-1659. [PMID: 27087692 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2016.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound imaging allows cost effective in vivo analysis for quantifying peripheral nerve excursion. This study used ultrasound imaging to quantify longitudinal radial nerve excursion during various active and passive wrist movements in healthy participants. Frame-by-frame cross-correlation software allowed calculation of nerve excursion from video sequences. The reliability of ultrasound measurement of longitudinal radial nerve excursion was moderate to high (intraclass correlation coefficient range = 0.63-0.86, standard error of measurement 0.19-0.48). Radial nerve excursion ranged from 0.41 to 4.03 mm induced by wrist flexion and 0.28 to 2.91 mm induced by wrist ulnar deviation. No significant difference was seen in radial nerve excursion during either wrist movement (p > 0.05). Wrist movements performed in forearm supination produced larger overall nerve excursion (1.41 ± 0.32 mm) compared with those performed in forearm pronation (1.06 ± 0.31 mm) (p < 0.01). Real-time ultrasound is a reliable, cost-effective, in vivo method for analysis of radial nerve excursion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Kasehagen
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University Institute of Health and Sport, Gold Coast, Robina, Queensland, Australia
| | - Richard Ellis
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Grant Mawston
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Scott Allen
- Sound Experience, Mt. Albert, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Wayne Hing
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University Institute of Health and Sport, Gold Coast, Robina, Queensland, Australia
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Excursion of the Sciatic Nerve During Nerve Mobilization Exercises: An In Vivo Cross-sectional Study Using Dynamic Ultrasound Imaging. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015; 45:731-7. [PMID: 26304637 DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2015.5743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Controlled laboratory cross-sectional study using single-group, within-subject comparisons. OBJECTIVES To determine whether different types of neurodynamic techniques result in differences in longitudinal sciatic nerve excursion. BACKGROUND Large differences in nerve biomechanics have been demonstrated for different neurodynamic techniques for the upper limb (median nerve), but recent findings for the sciatic nerve have only revealed small differences in nerve excursion that may not be clinically meaningful. METHODS High-resolution ultrasound imaging was used to quantify longitudinal sciatic nerve movement in the thigh of 15 asymptomatic participants during 6 different mobilization techniques for the sciatic nerve involving the hip and knee. Healthy volunteers were selected to demonstrate normal nerve biomechanics and to eliminate potentially confounding variables associated with dysfunction. Repeated-measures analyses of variance were used to analyze the data. RESULTS The techniques resulted in markedly different amounts of nerve movement (P<.001). The tensioning technique was associated with the smallest excursion (mean ± SD, 3.2 ± 2.1 mm; P < or = .004). The sliding technique resulted in the largest excursion (mean ± SD, 17.0 ± 5.2 mm; P<.001), which was approximately 5 times larger than that resulting from the tensioning technique and, on average, twice as large as that resulting from individual hip or knee movements. CONCLUSION Consistent with current theories and findings for the median nerve, different neurodynamic exercises for the lower limb resulted in markedly different sciatic nerve excursions. Considering the continuity of the nervous system, the movement and position of adjacent joints have a large impact on nerve biomechanics.
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Ridehalgh C, Moore A, Hough A. Sciatic nerve excursion during a modified passive straight leg raise test in asymptomatic participants and participants with spinally referred leg pain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 20:564-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.math.2015.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
We need to overcome limitations of present assessment and also integrate newer research in our work about sciatica. Inflammation induces changes in the DRG and nerve root. It sensitizes the axons. Nociceptor is a unique axon. It is pseudo unipolar: both its ends, central and peripheral, behave in similar fashion. The nerve in periphery which carries these axons may selectively become sensitive to mechanical pressure--"mechanosensitized," as we coin the phrase. Many pain questionnaires are used and are effective in identifying neuropathic pain solely on basis of descriptors but they do not directly physically correlate nerve root and pain. A thorough neurological evaluation is always needed. Physical examination is not direct pain assessment but testing mobility of nerve root and its effect on pain generation. There is a dogmatic dominance of dermatomes in assessment of leg pain. They are unreliable. Images may not correlate with symptoms and pathology in about 28% of cases. Electrophysiology may be normal in purely inflamed nerve root. Palpation may help in such inflammatory setting to refine our assessment further. Confirmation of sciatica is done by selective nerve root block (SNRB) today but it is fraught with several complications and needs elaborate inpatient and operating room set up. We have used the unique property of the pseudo unipolar axon that both its ends have similar functional properties and so inject along its peripheral end sodium channel blockers to block the basic cause of the mechanosensitization namely upregulated sodium channels in the root or DRG. Thus using palpation we may be able to detect symptomatic nerve in stage of inflammation and with distal end injection, along same inflamed nerve we may be able to abolish and so confirm sciatica. Discussions of sciatica pain diagnosis tend to immediately shift and centre on the affected disc rather than the nerve. Theoretically it may be possible to detect the affected nerve by palpating the nerve and relieve pain moment we desensitize the nerve.
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Normative sciatic nerve excursion during a modified straight leg raise test. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 19:59-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.math.2013.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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