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The Value of Provocative Tests in Diagnosis of Acute and Chronic Cervical Radiculopathy



Ghasemi M1, 3 ; Golabchi K2 ; Mousavi SA1, 3 ; Farajzadegan Z4 ; Shaygannejad V1, 3
Authors
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Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. Department of Neurology, Isfahan Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
  2. 2. Isfahan Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
  3. 3. Department of Neurology, Isfahan Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
  4. 4. Department of Community Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2011

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of shoulder abduction test (SAT), spurling test (ST) and upper limb tension test (ULTT) in diagnosis of acute or chronic cervical radiculopathy (CR) based on an electrodiagnostic reference criterion. Methods: Our tests and electromyography were done on 97 patients suffering from arm and neck pain. They were classified according to electrodiagnostic findings. Then diagnostic values of provocative tests were assessed in diagnosis of acute or chronic CR on the basis of reference criterion. Findings: SAT and ST were more specific compared to ULTT while ULTT was more sensitive than those two. SAT and ST had a significant accuracy for comparison between acute and chronic CR (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The ULTT is suitable for screening of CR, but SAT and ST can support diagnosis. The SAT and the ST are good diagnostic tests for comparison between acute and chronic CR.
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