Effects of Maitland's Joint Mobilization Versus Shacklock's Neurodynamic Mobilization Techniques in Low Back Pain

Low back pain due to facet joint arthritis can give rise to a sliding dysfunction of the lumbar nerve ischolar_mains. This could be attributed to a decrease in the joint space as a result of inflammation or fibrosis and hypertrophy; giving rise to pain and reduction in range of motion i.e. dysfunction of the lumbar spine.

Maitland's joint mobilization aims to improve the mechanics of facet joints i.e. the mechanical interface which is primarily affected. This in turn would probably improve the neurodynamics.

On the other hand Shacklock's neurodynamic mobilization techniques are directed to improve the mechanics of the mechanical interface i.e. facet joints along with neural tissue which may be secondarily affected due to the primary affection of facet joints.

Hence the objective of this study is to compare the effects of Maitland's joint mobilization versus Shacklocks neurodynamic mobilization in patients with low back pain. 50 subjects in the age group of 30-55 years with sub-acute low back pain having capsular pattern of restriction were randomly divided in two groups:

Group A: Maitland's Joint Mobilization

Group B: Shacklock's Neurodynamic Mobilization

Treatment was given on alternate days for 3 weeks with follow-up on week 4.

The study showed that Maitland's Joint Mobilization and Shacklock's Neurodynamic Mobilization were effective in the treatment of low back pain with Group B showing a significant early improvement.