Cervical Motor Control Part 3 - Does Posture Matter?

This week we continue to explore the research about motor control deficits in the cervical spine. Before discussing rehabilitation principles we are going to look at some new research about the role of sitting posture and how this impacts the action and load on muscles in the neck. 

Read More

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common entrapment neuropathy of the upper limb and often considered in the differential diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome and cervical radiculopathy. Understanding the cardinal clinical signs is paramount in assessment as there is no set criteria for diagnosis. This blog explores the presentation, assessment and neurodynamic treatments for this condition. 

Read More

Contralateral Knee Extension - a New Advance in Slump Test

This week we discuss new information about the normal response of painfree subjects during the slump test. Shacklock and his team (2016) have been studying the impact on contralateral knee extension and the resulting movement of the lumbar neural tissues during the slump test. Insightful and enlightening results!

Read More

Cervical Radiculopathy Part 3 - Physiotherapy Treatment

The third and final blog for this series covers the treatment modalities available for cervical radiculopathy. It is important to consider what the goals of your treatment are and how you are going to implement strategies to improve both the health and the movement of the nerve. 

Read More

Cervical Radiculopathy Part 2 - Assessment & Diagnosis

This blog is dedicated to the physical examination for cervical radiculopathy. We discuss the current clinical prediction rule, neurodynamic tests and neurological examination involved in making this clinical diagnosis. 

Read More

Cervical Radiculopathy Part 1 - Clinical Presentation

This is the first of a three part series on cervical radiculopathy. Cervical radiculopathy occurs when the cervical nerve roots are compressed resulting in pain, paraesthesia, and weakness into the upper extremity. The first step in making this clinical diagnosis is understanding dermatomal pain patterns indicative of nerve root pain. 

Read More