cervical special tests
This test is performed before beginning any cervical rehab to assess vertebrobasilar artery compromise.
What is the Vertebral Artery Test?
Nerve root integrity is assessed using dermatomes, myotomes, and these specific reflexes.
What are the biceps, brachioradialis, and triceps reflexes?
Cervical facet dysfunction symptoms are most provoked during these two motions.
What are extension and rotation?
This TOS test involves the patient looking toward the involved side while inhaling deeply.
What is Adson’s Test?
This muscle group is tested when the cervical spine is resisted into flexion.
What are the deep neck flexors?
This test reduces symptoms when the patient places their hand on top of their head.
What is the Shoulder Abduction Test?
Weakness in wrist extension likely indicates involvement of this nerve root.
What is C6?
This condition may result from stenosis or instability that compromises the vertebrobasilar arteries.
What is Cervical Arterial Dysfunction (CAD)?
Symptoms reproduced when the radial pulse diminishes with the shoulder abducted to 90° and the head turned away.
What is a positive Allen Test?
Pain or weakness during resisted cervical extension may indicate an issue with this muscle group.
What are the cervical extensors?
This test reproduces radicular type upper extremity symptoms when the cervical spine is side bent and the opposite shoulder depressed.
What is the Brachial Plexus Traction Test?
Hyperreflexia in deep tendon reflexes may indicate this type of spinal cord pathology.
What is myelopathy?
Immediate burning pain radiating down the arm with transient weakness suggests this pathology.
What is a brachial plexus burner/stinger?
This test involves 3 minutes of rapidly opening and closing the hands.
What is the Roos Test / EAST?
If resisted lateral flexion produces weakness, it may indicate dysfunction in muscles including these two major c-spine stabilizers.
What are the scalenes and upper trapezius?