Nerve Flossing
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What is Nerve Flossing?
Originally posted May 5, 2023
Written by Dr. Danielle Hilborn
Nerve flossing can also be called nerve sliding or nerve gliding, and they all mean the same thing. But what is it? Nerve flossing is an exercise that pulls the nerve through the surrounding tissues to help decrease tension and improve the nerve’s normal function and circulation. It also helps to lower pressure in between the layers of muscle fibres, lower sensitization, decrease swelling between nerves, and improve blood and oxygen flow to the nerve.
When should it be used?
It can be used for both acute and chronic nerve pain. Nerve pain includes numbness and tingling and sometimes even sharp shooting pain in parts of your arm or leg. Some people won’t notice they have nerve issues until they are actively stretching the nerve with normal movement like turning their head or stretching their neck. Examples of nerve pain diagnoses include sciatica, carpal tunnel, and radiculitis.
What should nerve flossing feel like?
There should be a pulling sensation along the path of the nerve. The intensity of pulling is depending on the tightness of the surrounding tissues and also the severity of your pain prior to the exercise. Nerve flossing can also temporarily increase the numbness and tingling sensation but this should resolve within a few minutes of stopping the exercise.
Will it work for me?
Nerve flossing has had good results in randomized control trials but it is not a one-size fits all treatment. It is a low-risk exercise that can be done at home but if you have any questions about whether or not this is the right treatment for you please contact our office to book an appointment.
How do I perform Nerve flossing?
The GIF below shows how to perform nerve flossing on your right sciatic nerve. Start seated and sitting up tall. With the affected leg - bend your knee and point your toe towards the ground, and bring your chin down towards your chest. Then slowly straighten your leg, bring your toes towards your nose, and tilt your head as far back as you can. Perform 5-10 repetitions about once an hour.
References:
Afzal, Mubushara, and Sabrina Memon. "Treatment of Sciatica by Neural Flossing Technique (NFT) in Adults." Pakistan Journal of Rehabilitation 11.1 (2022): 8-16.
Amin, Fatma Seddik, et al. "A Multimodal approach of electrotherapy versus nerve flossing technique in patients with chronic carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized controlled trial." Journal of Population Therapeutics and Clinical Pharmacology 30.7 (2023): 322-334.
Anikwe, E. E., et al. "Influence of Nerve Flossing Technique on acute sciatica and hip range of motion." International Journal of Medicine and Biomedical Research 4.2 (2015): 91-99.
Vartak, Himani Sanjay, et al. "A comparative study between neural mobilisation techniques versus nerve flossing technique in patients with acute sciatica." International Journal of Basic and Applied Research 9.3 (2019): 909-922.
Dr. Danielle Hilborn DC MSc
Chiropractor | Sports Medicine, Pro Motion Calgary