Spino Ortho Lab Exam Mechanisms | Medicine Terms & Definitions

What is the mechanism behind cervical compression test and variations (i.e. Modified Spurling)?

downward pressure compresses the facets, vertebral bodies, disc, and narrows the IVF

What is the mechanism behind Max. Cervical Compression test?

narrows IVF

What is the mechanism behind Jackson's test?

compression of joint and disc ipsilaterally to narrow the IVF

What is the mechanism behind cervical distraction test?

reduces pressure on vertebral bodies, discs, and opens the IVFs

What is the mechanism behind Bakody's sign?

reduces traction of the compressed cervical spinal nerve

What is the mechanism behind Soto-Hall test?

compresses the anterior vertebral bodies, posteriorly tractions the nuchal ligament and pulls on the SPs

What is the mechanism behind the Valsalva maneuver, Naffzigger test, and Milgrim's test?

increases intrathecal pressure and helps to identify radiculopathy due to space-occupying lesions

What is the mechanism behind the Shoulder Depression test?

depression of the clavicle and narrowing of the costoclavicular space as well as stretch the nerve root assoc. with dural sleeve adhesions

What is the mechanism behind Adson's and Modified Adson's test?

test for TOS due to compression of subclavian artery/vein, and brachial plexus

What is the mechanism behind Costoclavicular and Eden's test?

tests for TOS by compression of costoclavicular space (clavicle and 1st rib)

What is the mechanism behind Wright's (Hyperabduction) test?

tests for TOS from pectoralis minor and coracoid process compressing the axillary artery and brachial plexus, reducing blood flow

What is the mechanism behind Elevated Arm Stress Test, Intermittent Claudication Test, and Roos test?

tests for TOS particularly focusing on neurovascular compression or reduced blood flow

What is the mechanism behind Allen's test?

decreases blood flow into the hand; when one artery is released, blood should flow through and fill entire hand

What is the mechanism for Linders?

stretches the spinal cord and nerve roots

What is the mechanism behind Rust's sign?

braces cervical spine due to pain and instability

What is the mechanism behind O'Danahue's test?

passive pain indicates sprain (ligament) and active pain indicates strain (muscle)

What is the mechanism for Lhermitte's sign?

flexion of head increases tension on the spinal cord resulting in electrical shooting pain

What is a good test for whiplash patients?

swallow test

What are the two tests for Meningitis?

bruzinsky and kernig

What is the mechanism for Bruzinsky sign?

head flexion stretches the spinal cord and meninges

What is the mechanism for Kernig's?

tractions the sciatic nerve and lumbar nerves, and the meninges