Lumbar Spine Tests

Question 1

Bechterew’s Test

Answer 1

Seated, have patient passively or actively extend one leg at a time. Can add neck flexion. If not +, can have pt lift both legs together.

Question 2

Slump Test

Answer 2

Pt sits upright, arms behind back. Pt “slumps” with cervical extension, cervical spine is fully flexed and released. One knee maximally extended… (cervical spine is fully flexed and released). Dorsiflex ankle..(cervical spine is fully flexed and released). If sx changes both legs may be extended simultaneously.

Question 3

Kemp’s Test

Answer 3

Place once hand on lumbar spine, the other are the shoulder of the side you wil be testing. Laterally flex, rotate and extend truck around contact hand. Apply overpressure to shoulder and contact hand. Maximally narrows the intervertebral forable and compresses facet joint.

Question 4

Passive Straight Leg Raising Test (SLR)

Answer 4

Pt is supine. Passively elevate straight leg. Note angle of onset of pain.

Question 5

Sicard’s Test

Answer 5

Done after a + SLR. The examiner lowers straight leg 5-10 deg or to height just below the level of causing sx. Examiner then dorsiflexes (extends) the great toe.

Question 6

Bragard’s Test

Answer 6

After a + SLR, examiner lowers the straight leg 5-10 deg or to height just below the level causing sx. Examiner then dorsiflexes the foot.

Question 7

Well Leg Raise Test (XSLR/Fajersztajn)

Answer 7

Used in conjunction with the SLR. Examiner passively elevates the non-sx straight leg from the table. Monitor response in the other leg, sx leg.