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Median Nerve Glide

BeginnerMobilityTier T1
Median Nerve Glide

Gentle movement to mobilize the median nerve. Can help with carpal tunnel symptoms that may accompany elbow issues.

Targets: Elbow

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home

none

Home Options

  • bodyweight

Dosage

2

Sets

8

Reps / Time

30 sec

Rest

3 seconds each direction

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Stand or sit comfortably
  • Arm out to side at shoulder height
  • Palm facing up
  • Elbow slightly bent
  1. Median Nerve Glide - Step 1 of 5: Extend wrist so fingers point to ceiling

    Step 1 of 5

    Extend wrist so fingers point to ceiling

  2. Median Nerve Glide - Step 2 of 5: Gradually straighten elbow

    Step 2 of 5

    Gradually straighten elbow

  3. Median Nerve Glide - Step 3 of 5: Tilt head away from the arm

    Step 3 of 5

    Tilt head away from the arm

  4. Median Nerve Glide - Step 4 of 5: Feel gentle stretch down arm

    Step 4 of 5

    Feel gentle stretch down arm

  5. Median Nerve Glide - Step 5 of 5: Return to start position

    Step 5 of 5

    Return to start position

Breathing

  • Breathe normally
  • Stay relaxed

Form Cues

  • Very gentle movements
  • Mild stretch sensation only
  • Stop if symptoms increase
  • Slow and controlled

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Moving too aggressively
  • Holding too long in stretched position
  • Ignoring increased symptoms
  • Doing too many reps

Safety Information

GENTLE only. Stop if tingling worsens. Should feel mild stretch at most.

Progressions

Only progress if well tolerated

Regressions

Reduce range of motion