Common Interlimb Asymmetries and Neurogenic Responses during Upper Limb Neurodynamic Testing: Implications for Test Interpretation

Study DesignClinical measurement pilot study.IntroductionUpper limb neurodynamic testing (ULNT1) uses interlimb comparisons to investigate nerve sensitivity to movement.Purpose of the StudyTo establish the magnitude of range of motion asymmetries between limbs and the frequency of neurogenic sensory responses during ULNT1.MethodsElbow extension range of motion (EE-ROM) and sensory responses were measured during ULNT1 in dominant and nondominant limbs for 40 asymptomatic participants. Structural differentiation was performed to examine if sensory responses were associated with neurogenic sources.ResultsThe average intraindividual EE-ROM asymmetry was 7.28 deg (6.68 standard deviation) (95% confidence interval: 5.18, 9.28). Sensory responses in the limbs during ULNT1 were altered by structural differentiation in 95% of participants. An intraindividual, interlimb difference of ≥10 deg exceeds the range of common asymmetry during ULNT1.ConclusionsNeurogenic sensory responses are common findings in healthy individuals and should be acknowledged when interpreting ULNT1 findings.Level of Evidence3a.