Neuromuscular activation (Neurac) method in treatment, physical wellness and sport

Abstract

Method was developed by physiotherapists in Norway, in cooperation with colleagues in other countries. Neurac is a method focusing on testing and treating neuromuscular control, aiming for pain relief and optimized function. Neuromuscular (NM) control involves all mechanisms related to the body’s control of movement. As a consequence of pain, NM control is altered. Optimizing NM is key to restore and/or enhance functional movement patterns. Elements in the Neurac method: clinical communication, clinical examination, Neurac testing, Neurac treatment, patient education, home exercise, follow-up over time. Neurac treatment has four main ingredients: 1. Suspension Exercise: closed kinetic chain (body-weight-bearing exercises) and unsteadiness (controlled instability provided by the ropes and slings); 2. Perturbation. Perturbing the ropes and slings manually to increase unsteadiness. Controlled vibration applied by Redcord Stimula. 3. Workload. Precise grading of the exercises. NM challenge gradually increased. 4. Pain Free Approach. No provocation of pain. Alternatively no increase of existing pain. Indications for Neurac Treatment - altered neuromuscular control: long term pain, recurrent pain, chronic musculoskeletal disorders, recent trauma, neurological disorders. Plausible explanation of immediate effect on neuromuscular function. 1. Neural adaptations related to motor units (increased number of active units, improved synchronization, increased firing frequency, improved sequence of recruitment). 2. Spinal reflexes and inhibitory mechanisms are altered. 3. CNS activates a more efficient motor program. Factors influencing modality choice from a Biopsychosocial perspective. 1. Patient’s level of function (Neurac can modify exercises to any functional level). 2. Aggravating and relieving postures and movements (Neurac can modify exercises avoiding contexts associated with pain, and offer a safe and support. [...].