Nerve Sliding and Gliding: Mary Peterson describes the impact of our body's dynamic movements

The dynamic movement of our body requires the nerves that ride inside us to slide and glide along the underlying tissues, change length, and tolerate repetitive motion, bending and occasional jolts. The ability to adapt to these physical forces is remarkable.

When a nerve is trapped and has abnormal pressure placed on it, the blood supply changes, as does its ability to transmit electricity. Gradually, it becomes stuck to the surrounding tissue. A fibrosis or nerve bud, as Osteopath Dr. Jean Pierre Barral terms it, occurs. This creates sensitivity and pain. Conditions like carpal tunnel, tennis elbow and sciatica frequently have nerve buds contributing to their symptoms.

Light touch neural manipulation techniques free the restrictions along the path of the nerve, allowing improved slide and glide. Then, lifting the leg or bending the elbow becomes less painful as the elasticity and strength of the nerve improves. Restoring movement to a joint through nerve manipulation is an important component of a total treatment plan to avoid re-irritation from activity.

Mary Peterson, PT, MS Ed practices visceral, cranial and neural manipulation. She can be reached at 480-998-1646 and MaryPetersonPT.com. See ad on page xx.