Measuring longitudinal nerve motion using ultrasonography.

While it is known that peripheral nerves slide longitudinally in response to limb movements, the clinical relevance of this phenomenon remains largely speculative. This technical note introduces a new application for noninvasive measurement of longitudinal movement of peripheral nerves. The rationale for developing the technique is given including a brief overview of nerve motion theories and how these are related to clinical practice. Current ultrasound applications for nerves and tissue motion are outlined and details of the Doppler measurement procedure are described. Limitations of the technique and potential future applications are discussed. Spectral Doppler ultrasound may provide an effective method for noninvasive quantification of longitudinal nerve motion. Copyright 2000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.