Test: Spurling's Test

Video Link

Background/Purpose

Procedure

With the subject seated in an upright position, the examiner rests both hands on the top of the subjects head and applies a downward pressure while the subject laterally flexes the head. When the subject's head is in maximum rotation and flexion, the examiner delivers a vertical blow to the top of the head. The test is repeated with the subject laterally flexing to the opposite side. A reporting of pain into the upper extremity toward the same side that the head is laterally flexed is a positive sign and indicates pressure on a nerve root which can be correlated by dermatomal distribution of pain.
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

With maximum rotation and flexion, the examiner delivers a vertical blow to the top of the head.

Criteria

• No pain with maneuver.
• No radicular symptoms with maneuver.

Measurement

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail