Spurling test (foraminal compression test)

Indications

• test cervical radiculopathy

Procedure

• cervical spine extended with head rotated to the affected shoulder while applying downward pressure to the top of the patient's head

Interpretation

• radicular neck pain constitutes a positive test.

* 94% sensitivity, 30% specificity*

* cervical sprain may also show a positive Spurling test

More general terms

• physical examination of the shoulder

Additional terms

• arm squeeze test