EFFECT OF NEURAL MOBILIZATION ON BALANCE, FLEXIBILITY, STRENGTH AND GAIT IN STROKE PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Neural mobilization is characterized by the neurodynamics of the nervous system with the objectives of: reducing musculoskeletal tension and pain and increasing muscular endurance and strength. Stroke is a worldwide health problem due to the impacts on quality of life, and makes the physical capacity of individuals after stroke about 40% lower of normal individuals of the same age. Objective: To verify the efficacy of neural mobilization in patients with stroke. Methods: This is a blinded randomized clinical trial performed in 12 volunteers, aged between 20 and 80 years, with a diagnosis of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. It was performed five mobilizations of 60 seconds in the bilateral sciatic nerve. The degree of balance and gait of the volunteers was verified, as well as the muscular strength and flexibility of the quadriceps and hamstrings muscles pre-mobilization, immediately after and after 10 sessions performed three times a week. Results: Neural mobilization on neurological patients showed positive effects in relation to flexibility, lower limb muscle strength, gait and balance. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that the technique of neural mobilization can present good results in neurological patients with stroke sequelae. However, it is suggested that more studies be done with a larger number of volunteers and with a homogeneous sample on the approach of this technique in patients with neurological sequelae.