Effects of Nerve Mobilization Exercise as an Adjunct to the Conservative Treatment for Patients with Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

ObjectiveThis study was carried out with the aim of investigating the contribution of nerve mobilization exercises to the conservative treatment of tarsal tunnel syndrome.MethodsIn this clinical trial, 28 patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups. The control group was composed of 14 patients who were treated conservatively with a program consisting of physiotherapy and supportive inserts, whereas 14 patients in the study group were given nerve mobilization exercises in addition to the same treatment. Allpatients were followed up for 6 weeks. Before treatment, subjects were evaluated for muscle strength, range of motion, pain, sensory tests, and clinical manifestations of tarsal tunnel syndrome. The evaluations were repeated after 6 weeks.ResultsThere was a significant difference in favor of posttreatment values for range of motion, muscle strength, and pain in both groups (P < .05). Intergroup comparisons showed no difference between the groups for these parameters. Significant results were attained in the study group for 2-point discrimination and light touch and Tinel sign after treatment (P < .05).ConclusionPatients in both groups showed improvement from conservative treatment. The results of the study group showed that nerve mobilization exercises have a positive effect on 2-point discrimination and light touch and Tinel sign.