T-Spine - Special Test

Question 1

Rib Springing

Answer 1

purpose: Assess rib mobility and pain reproduction

perform: Patient prone. Examiner applies PA pressure over posterior ribs, noting motion and pain response.

positive: Pain or hypomobility = positive

Question 2

Thoracic Springing

Answer 2

purpose: Assess segmental mobility of thoracic spine

perform: Patient prone. Examiner applies PA pressure over spinous processes of thoracic vertebrae.

positive: Positive finding is pain, excessive motion of rib or restriction

Question 3

Slump Test

Answer 3

purpose: Assess neural tension (sciatic nerve)

perform: Patient seated; slump thoracic and lumbar spine, flex neck, extend knee, dorsiflex foot.

positive: Reproduction of radicular symptoms = positive