Physical Therapists Endorse 'Nerve Flossing' for Pain Relief, Advise Professional Guidance
Physical therapists are increasingly discussing and recommending 'nerve flossing,' also known as nerve gliding, as a technique to alleviate pain, numbness, and tingling sensations. This stretching technique aims to free nerves that have become compressed by surrounding tissues, allowing them to move more freely. Shannon Leggett, a New York City-based physical therapist, describes it as a 'dynamic stretch for the nerve,' involving careful and mindful movements of joints around the target nerve. Unlike traditional stretching, nerve flossing focuses on creating tension at one end of the nerve while providing slack at the other, rather than pushing to the end range of motion. While it can be performed independently and doesn't require equipment, experts like Morgan Sileo, DPT, an orthopedic clinical specialist at the Hospital for Special Surgery, strongly advise starting with a physical therapist to ensure proper technique and avoid exacerbating symptoms, as nerves are delicate. 
