The responses of upper limb neurodynamic tension test 2 (radial bias) in Thai healthy people aged 18-30 years

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the responses of radial nerve tension by upper limb neurodynamic test 2 [ULNT2 (radial bias)] of both arms in Thai healthy people aged 18-30 years by measurement of angle of elbow extension, responding area and characteristic of response at threshold level and tolerance level. Subjects are 70 males and 70 females aged 18-30 years. The order of test is scapular depression, shoulder internal rotation with pronation, flexion wrist and fingers with ulnar deviation and elbow extension. Results reveal that median and standard deviation of elbow extension at threshold level of right and left side of male are 112.99°+ 3.92°, 112.86°+ 3.72° or at 20^th percentile = 110°  female are 113.50°+ 3.09°, 113.07°+ 3.26° respectively  or at 20^th percentile(or approximately 80 %of the research group)  = 111°. At tolerance level of right/left side of elbow extension of male are 165.41°+ 10.52°, 164.98° + 11.25° or at 20^th percentile = 157°-154°(right/left side) female = 168.83° + 10.23°, 169.57° + 9.22° respectively or at 20^th percentile = 165°. The most common responding areas of ULNT 2 are tension at the anterior aspect of shoulder region and the anterior aspect of arm in both males and females. Results of this study can provide information for diagnostic screening of the Thai musculoskeletal patients in physical therapy unit who have upper limb neurodynamic tension of radial nerve, aged range 18-30 years.