Effect of neurodynamic sliding technique on bilateral hamstring flexibility and balance in normal elderly population

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of Neurodynamic sliding technique on hamstring flexibility and postural balance in elderly population. This study was randomized experimental trial. A total of 30 subjects (14 females and16 males), confirmed by the subject specialist were selected on the basis of exclusion and inclusion criteria. All subjects began with a single measure of passive SLR on their dominant leg. Range of motion was less than 75° and balance was assessed by Berg Balance Scale. Measurements were performed on very first day of the intervention. Subjects were then treated with Neurodynamic Sliding Technique on 6 different days over two weeks. Results were noted and compared on the 1 day (pre) and after 2 weeks (post). Data was analysed using MS EXCEL. Student’s test was applied for the comparison of all variable in elderly population treated with Neurodynamic Sliding Technique in improving balance and straight leg raise. The evaluation of results was done pre and post intervention on the two parameters which were balance by BBS and passive range of motion of SLR by Goniometer. It showed improvement in PROM (SLR) test and berg balance score on the subsequent days i.e. day 1 (Before) and 2 weeks (After). Results from this study show that an isolated Neurodynamic Intervention provides a greater immediate increase in Passive Straight Leg Raise. The results confirmed our initial hypothesis that an isolated neurodynamic sliding technique would provide a greater immediate improvement in hip flexion, assessed by Passive Straight Leg Raise. Limitation of the study was Small sample size and lack of control group. It was concluded that Neurodynamic sliding technique was effective in increasing the hamstring flexibility and improving postural balance in elderly population.