====== Signs useful in evaluating cervical radiculopathy ======
[[Sign]]s useful in evaluating [[cervical radiculopathy]]:

===== General information =====

Almost all [[herniated cervical disc]]s cause [[pain]]ful limitation of [[neck motion]]. [[Neck extension]] usually aggravates [[pain]] when [[cervical disc disease]] is present (a minority of patients instead exhibit pain with [[cervical flexion]]). Some patients find relief in elevating the arm and cupping the back or the top of the head with the hand ([[abduction relief sign]], [[shoulder abduction test]]). [[Lhermitte’s sign]]

===== Miscellaneous =====

The following tests were found to be specific, but not particularly sensitive in detecting cervical root
compression

1. [[Spurling’s sign]]: radicular pain reproduced when the examiner exerts downward pressure on
vertex while tilting head towards symptomatic side (sometimes adding neck extension). Causes
narrowing of the intervertebral foramen and possibly increases disc bulge. Used as a “mechanical
sign” analogous to SLR for lumbar disc herniation

2. [[axial manual traction]]: 10–15 kg of axial traction is applied to a supine patient with radicular
symptoms (pull up on patient’s mandible and occiput). The reduction or disappearance of radicular
symptoms is a positive finding

3. [[shoulder abduction test]]: a sitting patient with radicular symptoms lifts their hand above their
head. The reduction or disappearance of radicular symptoms is a positive finding. Moderately
sensitive, fairly specific