Overview
Dr. Donna Wills from Championship Chiropractic explains the cervical compression test, outlining its procedure, positioning, and diagnostic indications for cervical spine pathology.
Patient Positioning and Preparation
- Patient should be seated or standing with good posture and neck in a neutral position.
- Ensure the neck is not flexed, extended, laterally flexed, or rotated.
Test Procedure
- Examiner stands behind the patient and places one or both hands on top of the head.
- Apply a very light axial compression directly downward on the skull to compress the cervical spine.
Interpretation of Results
- A positive test is indicated by reproduction or increase of radicular symptoms down the affected arm.
- Positive findings suggest either a disc herniation or cervical radiculopathy.