Understanding the Maximal Cervical Compression Test Assessment
To assess for general **cervical nerve root compression** and **facet joint irritation**.
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is sitting.
What happens?
The patient maximally moves the head through a combination of **lateral flexion, rotation, and hyperextension** toward the side being tested.
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
Reproduction of **radicular pain** (shooting pain down the arm) suggests nerve root compression. Reproduction of **local neck pain** suggests facet joint pathology.
Helpful Tip:
This test is a comprehensive, multi-directional stress test on the cervical spine.
Safety First
This guide is to help you understand what happens in a clinic. Do not try to diagnose yourself. If you have severe pain, swelling, or cannot put weight on your leg, please visit an urgent care center or your doctor immediately.
Other Cervical Spine Tests
Distraction Test (Cervical)
To relieve symptoms associated with **Cervical Radiculopathy** (nerve root compression) or **Facet Joint irritation**.
Foraminal Compression Test (Spurling's Test)
To detect **Cervical Radiculopathy** caused by nerve root compression, usually due to **foraminal stenosis** (bone spurs) or a **disc herniation**.
Jackson Compression Test (Vertical Compression)
To detect general **nerve root irritation** or **facet joint pathology** (less specific than Spurling's).
Lhermitte's Sign
To screen for **central nervous system pathology** such as **Multiple Sclerosis (MS)**, cervical myelopathy, or other spinal cord lesions.