Which test is commonly used to assess lumbar radiculopathy and is often performed with the patient in a seated slump position?

• A. Slump Test
• B. Crossed Straight Leg Raise
• C. Fajersztajn Sign
• D. Well Leg Raise

Answer: (A)

The seated slump test is a neural tension test used to assess lumbar radiculopathy. By having the patient sit and slump the spine, the clinician places traction along the neural elements from the lower spine through the sciatic nerve. This position can be further titrated by adding neck flexion, knee extension, and ankle dorsiflexion to increase tension. If this sequence reproduces the patient’s concordant leg symptoms, it suggests nerve root irritation, such as from a disc herniation or foraminal compression.

This test is classically performed in a seated slump, which is why it fits the scenario described. Other tests, like lifting the opposite leg while the patient is supine (well-leg or crossed straight leg raise) or lifting the affected leg, are also used to assess radiculopathy but rely on different positions and mechanics, not the seated slump setup described here.