TEST POSITIONING

The client should sit.

The therapist stands next to the client.

ACTION

The therapist asks the client to take a deep breath and hold while bearing down as if having a bowel movement.

POSITIVE FINDING

Increased pain due to increased intrathecal pressure, which may be secondary to a space-occupying lesion, herniated disk, tumor, or osteophyte in the cervical canal is a positive finding.

Pain may be localized or referred to the corresponding dermatome.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/COMMENTS

The increased pressure may alter venous function and cause dizziness or unconsciousness.

The therapist should be prepared to steady the client.