THORACIC SPINE

Question 1

SLUMP TEST

Answer 1

Pt seated on edge of couch
Pt slumps (shoulders sag, spine flexed)
Examiner holds pt head and chin up
If no symptoms - flex pt head and apply pressure
If no symptoms - extend pt leg
If no symptoms - dorsiflex pt foot
Repeat on other side

Question 2

SLUMP TEST - WHAT DOES IT TEST?

Answer 2

Increased pressure on nerve root
DJD
Osteophytes
Disc
Radiculopathy

Question 3

SLUMP TEST - POSITIVE TEST

Answer 3

Shooting pain in leg
Reproduction of original symptoms

Question 4

KEMPS (SEATED)

Answer 4

Pt seated on edge of couch
Rest forearms on shoulders
Apply force down
If no pain
Extension + compress
Extension + rotation + compress (asymptomatic side first)

Question 5

KEMPS (STANDING)

Answer 5

Pt standing
Pt wraps arm round and touch back of their leg (leg that’s same side as arm first)
Repeat on other side

Question 6

KEMPS - WHAT DOES IT TEST?

Answer 6

Acute inflammatory lesion
Local sprain/strain
Facet irritation
Spinal fracture

Question 7

KEMPS - POSITIVE TEST

Answer 7

Localised pain