Abduction relief sign

Useful sign in evaluating cervical radiculopathy.

Relief of pain, induced by arm abduction, may be observed in cervical radiculopathy in which the lower cervical nerve roots are involved. Reduced tension at the nerve root is the probable underlying mechanism that leads to pain relief. Shoulder abduction can be used not only as a diagnostic sign but also may be incorporated in the conservative management of patients suffering from cervical radiculopathy affecting the lower cervical roots.