Spring Test

Other Names

Demonstration of spring test

Spring test

• Spring Test
• Springing Test
• Spinal Spring Test
• Facet Spring Test
• Posterior-to-Anterior (PA) Spring Test
• PA Pressure Test
• Passive Accessory Intervertebral Motion (PAIVM) Test
• Central Posterior-Anterior (CPA) Spring Test
• Unilateral Posterior-Anterior (UPA) Spring Test
• Segmental Springing Test

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Purpose

• To evaluate the cause of the patients neck or back pain

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Description

• The patient is prone, examiner at the side of the patient
• Hands are placed over the spinal segment being tested
• Hand Placement
  • Central PA: over the spinous process
  • Unilateral PA: just lateral to the spinous process over the articular pillar or transverse process
• Apply gentle posterior to anterior pressure
• Use rhythmic springing motion
• Assess each spinal level individual
• Compare mobility and symptoms side to side, level to level
• Positive test
  • Reproduction of localized spinal pain
  • Decreased mobility (hypomobility) compared to adjacent segments
  • Excessive motion (hypermobility) may also be noted

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Pathology

• Facet Joint Pain
• Hypomobility
• Hypermobility

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Evidence

• Unknown

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See Also

Back

• Back Pain Main
• Back Anatomy Main
• Physical Exam Back

Neck

• Neck Pain Main
• Neck Anatomy Main
• Physical Exam Neck

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