Scorebuilders Q&A

Episode 114- Spurling's Test

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0:00 | 6:38

A physical therapist performs Spurling's test on a patient with right-sided upper extremity neural symptoms. The therapist begins the test by passively placing the patient's neck in right lateral flexion and extension. Before even applying axial compression, the patient reports that their upper extremity symptoms have been reproduced. Which of the following best explains the clinical significance of this test?

Option 1- Increased tension of the brachial plexus as it passes through the thoracic outlet

Option 2- Facet joint irritation from cervical lateral flexion and extension

Option 3- Instability of the upper cervical spine due to ligamentous laxity

Option 4- Compression of a cervical nerve root due to foraminal narrowing

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