What is neural tension testing and what does a positive result indicate?

• A. Neural tension tests assess the mechanical sensitivity and mobility of neural tissues; positive results suggest nerve irritation or entrapment.
• B. Neural tension tests measure bone density.
• C. Neural tension tests evaluate joint laxity.
• D. Neural tension tests assess muscle strength.

Answer: (A)

Neural tension testing examines how nerves along the spine and limbs respond when they are gently stretched or loaded through specific positions, focusing on the mobility and sensitivity of neural tissues. A positive result means the test reproduces the patient’s concordant symptoms (such as burning, tingling, numbness, or pain) and/or shows abnormal movement of the nerve, indicating irritation or entrapment along the nerve pathway. This points to a neural source of symptoms rather than issues from bones or muscles. It’s not a measure of bone density, joint laxity, or muscle strength, which are assessed by other types of tests.