The slump test assesses neural tension in which region?

• A. Lumbar nerve roots
• B. Cervical nerve roots
• C. Thoracic nerve roots
• D. Sacral nerve roots

Answer: (A)

The slump test primarily assesses neural tension in the lumbar nerve roots. This neurodynamic test positions the spine in a flexed, slumped posture and adds motions at the hips, knees, and ankles to progressively load the dural sheath and the exiting lumbosacral nerve roots as they travel from the lumbar spine into the sciatic nerve. Reproduction of leg symptoms with these maneuvers points to tension or irritation of the lumbosacral nerve roots. Tests focusing on the cervical or thoracic regions use different neck- or trunk-based maneuvers, and while the nerves can be stressed along the entire axis, the slump test is most classically linked to loading the lumbar nerve roots rather than the upper spine.