The Foraminal Compression Test reproduces radicular symptoms by compressing the nerve root at which location?

• A. Intervertebral disc space
• B. Spinal canal
• C. Facet joints
• D. Intervertebral foramen

Answer: (D)

Radicular symptoms come from compression of the nerve root as it exits the spine through the intervertebral foramen. The Foraminal Compression Test is performed with axial loading of the head while the spine is in a position that closes the foraminal opening on the side being tested. This targeted closure increases pressure on the exiting nerve root if there is foraminal narrowing or irritation nearby, such as foraminal stenosis or a posterolateral disc herniation, producing the familiar radicular pain or paresthesias along the corresponding dermatome. Compressing the spinal canal would affect the central nervous system structures and is less likely to produce isolated radicular symptoms, while facet joint compression typically causes local, not radicular, pain.