Terminology and identification of spine-related leg pain patients

There is no agreement on a definition or diagnostic criteria for “sciatica.” The term “sciatica” has been used to describe a variety of nerve-related disorders originating in the spine, including radicular discomfort and painful radiculopathy (Foster NE, et al., 2020; Lin CW, et al., 2014). Despite the linguistic connotation of neural involvement, the term “sciatica” has been used to refer to somatic-referred pain in some … Continue reading Terminology and identification of spine-related leg pain patients

What are movement system impairment syndromes? A detailed explanation.

For more than 15 years, researchers have focused on classifying patients with low back and neck pain (Ford JJ, Hahne AJ. 2013; Foster NE, et al. 2011; McKenzie R. 1981; O’Sullivan P. 2005; Van Dillen L, et al. 2003; Weiner B. 2008b; Delitto A, et al. 1995; Fritz J, et al. 2007; Kamper SJ, et al. 2010). However, as physical therapists, we do not have … Continue reading What are movement system impairment syndromes? A detailed explanation.

Bilateral Straight Leg Raise Test

Purpose of Bilateral Straight Leg Raise Test: To test if the tension along the sciatic nerve, tibial nerve, L4,5,S1 nerve roots (1), conus medullaris (2), and the adjacent dura to the spinal cord (3) contribute to the neurologic symptoms associated with radiculopathy (4-6). Patient position: Supine lying. Examiner position: Standing beside the examination table, facing the patient. Procedure: Perform the limb/joint positioning sequence in the … Continue reading Bilateral Straight Leg Raise Test

Straight Leg Raise Test 6

Straight Leg Raise Test 6 – Modified for patients who cannot lie supine Purpose of Straight Leg Raise Test 6: To test if the tension along the sciatic nerve, tibial nerve, L4,5,S1 nerve roots (1), conus medullaris (2), and the adjacent dura to the spinal cord (3) contribute to the neurologic symptoms associated with radiculopathy (4). Patient position: Side-lying with a pillow in-between two legs, … Continue reading Straight Leg Raise Test 6

Straight Leg Raise Test 5

Straight Leg Raise Test 5 – Crossed Straight Leg (Well-Leg) Raising Test of Fajersztajn Purpose: To test if a modified straight leg raise test with a bias towards the movement of the dura and contralateral lumbosacral (L4,5,S1) nerve roots assist in the differential diagnosis of nerve root pathology (disc prolapse) in people with neurologic symptoms associated with radiculopathy (1, 2). Patient position: Supine lying. Examiner … Continue reading Straight Leg Raise Test 5