EFFICACY OF NERVE FLOSSING TECHNIQUE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE SCIATICA

Abstract

Introduction: Sciatica is one of the most common painful and disabling conditions accounting for about 40% of low back pain cases hence the need for effective means to alleviate symptoms. Nerve Flossing Technique has been successfully used to manage neuropathic pain like carpal tunnel syndrome. Aim: This study investigated the efficacy of nerve flossing technique (NFT) in the relief of symptoms of acute sciatica and the attendant functional disabilities. Method: In this randomized control trial, 32 participants between the ages of 18 – 64 years with acute sciatica were randomly assigned into two groups; Group A (Study Group) received Nerve Flossing Technique (NFT) in addition to Conventional Physiotherapy and group B (Control Group) received only Conventional Physiotherapy. The outcome was assessed in terms of Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Passive Straight Leg Raise (PSLR) and Sciatica Bothersomeness Index (SBI). Result: Both groups had significant improvement in NPRS score (p<0.01), PSLR value (p<0.01) and SBI score (p<0.01). However, comparing the mean changes in the outcome measures between the two groups showed that the study group had significant (p<0.01) changes in all outcome measures when compared to the control group. Conclusion: NFT combined with conventional physiotherapy has a better effect on the management of acute sciatica and should be an

Keywords

• nerve flossing
• sciatica
• siatica bothersome index