Testing the mobility of the upper
extremity nerves is key to finding out if you have a pinched nerve in
the neck.
First stand up and bend
your elbow as much as it will go as shown. Next take your
wrist and bend it backwards as far as it will go.
Next bring the shoulder
down as far as it will go and hold it down throughout this
whole test.
IT'S VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR
SHOULDER DOWN FOR THE DURATION OF THE TEST.
IF YOUR SHOULDER COMES UP, THE TEST IN
NOT VALID.
Finally, straighten your
elbow while keeping your shoulder down and your wrist all the
way back.
Now test the other side. Compare how the two sides feel. Remember that
form is very important with this test! The thing that patients often
forget is to lower the shoulder and keep it down as they straighten the
elbow. Make sure you do it identically on both sides! Does one feel
different from the other? Now answer these questions...
