The professor position and the single-stance flexion test may clarify the effect of lumbar spinal stenosis or pseudostenosis on lower-extremity symptoms.

The professor position and the single-stance flexion test may clarify the effect of lumbar spinal stenosis or pseudostenosis on lower-extremity symptoms. J Am Podiatr Med Assoc. 2013 Mar-Apr;103(2):156-60 Authors: Goldman SM Abstract The effect of lumbar spinal stenosis on lower-extremity symptoms is often hard to ascertain in patients with multiple possible causes of symptoms. A positive response to two described maneuvers performed by patients in the office involving flexion of the spine can strongly corroborate the contribution of lumbar spinal stenosis to lower-extremity symptoms, although a negative response does not negate it. The professor position involves the patient standing and leaning in a gentle flexion position, with hands held secure behind the lower back. The single-stance flexion test has the patient gently leaning on support, with only a single symptomatic extremity supporting his or her body weight. Reduction or elimination of lower-extremity symptoms otherwise experienced in an erect position suggests that spine position contributes significantly to the overall lower-extremity symptoms, in addition to or instead of weightbearing or dependent positioning. These maneuvers may be effective in either lumbar spinal stenosis or pseudostenosis, a condition in which lower-extremity mechanical dysfunction induces spinal dysfunction mimicking or exacerbating symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis. Success with either maneuver can suggest...
Source: Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association - Category: Podiatry Authors: Tags: J Am Podiatr Med Assoc Source Type: research