SLUMP

TEST

​• Test positioning

The client sits on the end of the table and leans forward while the therapist holds the head and chin upright.

​• Action

Any symptomatic changes reported by the client are noted.

The therapist then flexes the client's neck and assesses for any changes in symptoms.

If no changes are noted, the therapist passively extends one of the client's knees.

Again, symptomatic changes are assessed.

With no noted changes, the therapist then passively dorsiflexes the client's ankle while the knee remains extended.

The client is then returned to the original "slump" position and the test is repeated for the other leg.

​• Positive finding

A complaint of sciatic-type pain or any reproduction of symptoms is indicative of a positive test

​• Special considerations & comments

The therapist should note the location of the symptomatic changes, as this is often the site of a dural stretch.

Others have described this test whereby the client actively moves the knee and ankle, as opposed to passive movement.

The Slump Test is credited to Dr. Robert Elvey for his work in neural tension testing and its application in assessing nerve involvement in the lumbar spine.

Contributions from Dr. James Cyriax have further refined its clinical use.