Cervical Radicular (nerve root/dorsal root ganglion/spinal nerve) referred pain and movement pattern, commonly referred to as a 'pinched nerve'.

At Back in Business Physiotherapy, in the heart of North Sydney, we treat a variety of 'pinched nerves' using a variety of techniques. These may include traction, taping, soft tissue massage, joint mobilisations and exercises to relieve the pain caused by compression and inflammation. These techniques are collectively known as manual, musculoskeletal or manipulative physiotherapy. In essence the joints and soft tissue are manouvered to open up the space between vertebrae where the nerves exit the spinal cord to become the peripheral nevous system. Frequently, problems associated with nerve compression are characterised by pins & needles, numbness, loss of muscle power, altered skin sensation, and reduced reflexes in the limbs. 

In this example the palpation and treatment technique is a sustained passive physiological movement (PPIVM) of rotation to the right.  This technique respects spasm and uses the normalisation of signs and symptoms to establish efficacy and hence 'face validity' of the treatment chosen.  Biomechanics suggest some 'opening' of the intervertebral foramen on the left. Neurophysiology suggests that this leads to 'unloading' of the intraforaminal structures (eg nerve root/DRG/spinal and sinuvertebral nerves, blood vessels).

Low Back Radiculopathy, commonly referred to as a 'slipped disc'