Comparing Mulligan Mobilization and Neural Mobilization Effects in Patients with Cervical Radiculopathy

Abstract

Background Mulligan mobilization and neural mobilization have already made a mark and have been found effective in reducing pain disability and in improving range of motion in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Objective The present study was intended to compare the effects of Mulligan mobilization versus neural mobilization in cervical radiculopathy.Methods Thirty patients with cervical radiculopathy were conveniently assigned to two groups ndash Group A n15 were treated with Mulligan mobilization while Group B n15 were treated with neural mobilization. Intermittent cervical traction was used as a common treatment for both the groups. Treatment dosage for both groups was seven sessions or one week. Neck disability functional level and range of motion before and after the treatment program were evaluated by using Neck Disability Index questionnaire Patient Specific Functional Scale questionnaire and Goniometer respectively.Results In Group A amp Group B significant improvement in condition existed within the groups. There was a significant reduction in neck disability increase in functional level and increase in ROM following Mulligan and neural mobilizations. Though patients who received neural mobilization did better than patients who received Mulligan there was no significant difference between the groups. PSFS p0.572NS NDI p0.269NS ROM Flexion p0.776NS extension p0.302NS lateral flexion ndash right p0.282NS lateral flexion ndash left p0.877NS side rotation ndash left p0.72NS were noted.Conclusion Neural mobilization showed better results than Mulligan mobilization in the management of cervical radiculopathy. However there was no significant difference between the groups.Keywords Cervical radiculopathy Mulligan mobilization Neural mobilization Neck disability Functional level.