Spine Special Tests

Question 1

Alar Ligament Test

Answer 1

Purpose of test: asses the integrity of the alar ligaments and thus cervical stability

Question 2

Cervical Distraction Test

Answer 2

Purpose of test: to assess the contribution of cervical radiculopathy to the pt’s symptoms

Question 3

Vertebral Artery Test

Answer 3

Purpose of test: to assess the contribution of vertebral artery occlusion to the pt’s symptoms

Question 4

Sharp-Purser Test

Answer 4

Purpose of test: to assess the integrity of the transverse ligament/ upper cervical spine instability

Question 5

Adam’s Forward Bend Test

Answer 5

Purpose of test: to identify individuals with scoliosis

Question 6

Gower’s Sign

Answer 6

Purpose of test: to asses the contribution of proximal LE muscle weakness to the pt’s symptoms

Question 7

Lumbar Quadrant Test

Answer 7

Purpose of test: to determine if the lumbar spine is the source of the pt’s symptoms

Question 8

Slump Test

Answer 8

Purpose of test: to assess whether a herniated disc, neural tension, or altered neurodynamics are contributing to the pt’s symptoms

Question 9

SLR Test

Answer 9

Purpose of test: to test for the presence of a disc herniation

Question 10

Supine to Long Sit Test

Answer 10

Purpose of test: to assess the contribution of the SI joint to an apparent leg length discrepancy