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This test should be done with clients who have had trauma to the neck.
Cautions
Do not do this test if the trauma is recent or severe, and have your client see a doctor for evaluation.
Go very gently and get feedback. Stop the test immediately if symptoms appear and recommend that your client consult a doctor for further evaluation.
Technique
Ask your client to keep their eyes open, then gently press inferiorly on the top of their head and ask if they have any symptoms of pain, tingling, or numbness in their arms, or any dizziness, nausea, or changes in vision. Hold for up to 30 seconds.
Stop the test immediately if symptoms appear and recommend that your client consult a doctor for further evaluation.
Repeat this test with your client’s head flexed to the right and rotated to the left, then flexed to the left and rotated to the right.
If the Spurling test is positive, it can indicate cervical disc compression or compression of the vertebral arteries. If the test is positive, do not continue treatment of the neck and refer your client to a doctor for further evaluation.
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