Diagnostic Validity of the Neurodynamic or Orthopedic Tension Tests

Use of Neurodynamic or Orthopedic Tension Tests for the Diagnosis of Lumbar-Sacral and Lumbar Radiculopathies: Study of the Diagnostic Validity

The objective of the present study is to analyse the diagnostic validity of 8 neurodynamic and/or orthopedic tension tests using magnetic resonance imaging as the Gold Standard.

Lumbar radiculopathy is a nerve root disorder which affects quality of life of the patient and it is considered as an important health problem. Therefore, its correct diagnosis is essential. The objective of the present study is to analyse the diagnostic validity of 8 neurodynamic and/or orthopedic tension tests using magnetic resonance imaging as the Gold Standard.

This is an epidemiological study of randomized consecutive cases which was observational, descriptive, transversal, double blinded and followed the STARD (Standards for Reporting Diagnostic accuracy studies) declaration.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinical suspicion of lumbar or lumbosacral radiculopathy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Healthy subjects or with a radiculopathy already diagnosed
• subjects with Diabetes, alcoholism, HIV+, herpes zoster infection, cancer, multiple sclerosis, hereditary neuropathy or lumbar surgery
• persons with pacemaker or stent
• known pregnancy
• persons that refused to participate in the study or undergo the MRI scan.