Slump test

System: Muscles, Bones & Joints Signs · All muscles, bones & joints signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

Sitting slumped with the chin to the chest, straightening one knee and pulling the foot up reproduces radiating leg symptoms, which ease when the head is lifted.

What a positive finding suggests

Associated with irritation of the sciatic nerve and its roots (neural tension).

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Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.