Foraminal Nerve Compression Test

A physical examination technique that reduces the opening of the foramen may demonstrate if there is pressure upon the exiting spinal nerve. The test is done to detect spinal nerve root involvement, a herniated disc, bulging disc, or foraminal stenosis. The patient is seated with the head and neck in a neutral position. Pressure is increasingly applied on the head and neck in mild lateral flexion to either side. A positive result replicates numbness or tingling into a dermatome of the upper extremity. Also called Sparely’s Maneuver.