Median Nerve Glide
Contraindications
- Stop if nerve symptoms (tingling, shooting pain) significantly worsen
- Do not force the movement into pain — you should feel a gentle stretch at most
- Avoid if you have acute nerve injury without professional clearance
- Consult your physiotherapist if you have cervical radiculopathy
- Use caution if you have had recent hand or wrist surgery
Benefits
- Improves median nerve mobility and gliding
- Reduces nerve tension and associated symptoms
- Helps relieve carpal tunnel symptoms
- Improves arm and hand function
- Can help address nerve-related neck and arm pain
How to Perform the Median Nerve Glide
Stand or sit with good posture. Start with your right arm by your side, elbow straight, wrist neutral, and palm facing forward.
Step 1: Gently extend your right wrist back (extension), pointing your fingers toward the floor.
Step 2: Slowly tilt your head to the left (away from the arm being exercised).
Step 3: Gently extend your shoulder back and slightly out to the side (abduction to about 30 degrees).
You should feel a gentle stretch or mild tingling along the front of your arm. This is normal nerve lengthening.
Slowly reverse the movements: return your head to neutral, wrist to neutral, and arm to starting position.
Complete 5–10 slow, controlled repetitions. Perform 2–3 times daily.
Important
Nerve glides should be performed gently. The sensation should be a mild stretch or gentle tingling — never sharp or severe pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
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