Spurling test

Skills: Neck
Quiz: Neck

Spurling test is performed with rotation, extension, and lateral bending toward the painful side and gentle axial pressure of approximately 7 kg on the head. Note if radiating pain in the arm is reproduced.

Rotation

Extension + Lateral bending

Wainner RS et al. Reliability and diagnostic accuracy of the clinical examination and patient self-report measures for cervical radiculopathy. Spine 2003:28(1):52-62

Test characteristics: Sens 50, Spec 74, LR+ 1.92, LR- 0.67

Gentle axial pressure of 7 kg against the head

Back to the neck