The Lumbar Evaluation: Diagnosing the Root of Back Pain
At the office of Mark F. Herman, Chiropractic Physician, we don’t just treat your symptoms; we investigate the source. To determine the most effective treatment plan, we perform a series of specialized lumbar tests designed to assess nerve function, joint mobility, and spinal alignment.
book online1. The Prone Leg Length Test (Functional Assessment)
One of the most critical “lumbar tests” in our clinic is the evaluation of functional leg length while you are lying face down (prone).
- The Mechanism: Imbalances in the lower back or pelvis often cause the body to “pull” one hip higher than the other, resulting in a functional short leg.
- The Insight: By observing how the leg lengths change when the knees are bent or the head is turned, we can pinpoint exactly which lumbar vertebrae or pelvic joints are misaligned.
2. Orthopedic Lumbar Testing
To ensure your safety and rule out conditions that might require referral, we utilize several evidence-based orthopedic tests:
| Test Name | What It Evaluates | Why It’s Important |
| Straight Leg Raise (SLR) | Nerve root tension. | Helps identify sciatica or disc herniations. |
| Kemp’s Test | Facet joint
syndrome. |
Determines if the small joints of the spine are the source of pain. |
| Yeoman’s Test | Sacroiliac (SI) joint strain. | Distinguishes between lower back pain and hip/pelvis issues. |
| Valvasa Maneuver | Intrathecal pressure. | Checks for space-occupying lesions like severe disc bulges. |
3. Palpation and Range of Motion
Finally, we use static and motion palpation. Dr. Herman manually feels the individual segments of the lumbar spine as you move.
- Static Palpation: Checking for localized swelling, heat, or tender “trigger points.”
- Motion Palpation: Identifying “fixations”—joints that have lost their natural ability to glide and pivot.
Why This Matters: Accurate testing prevents unnecessary adjustments and ensures that the force applied is exactly what your body needs to heal. It’s the difference between “cracking a back” and performing a clinical correction.
Results You Can Trust
Once these tests are complete, we sit down with you to explain the findings. Whether it’s a simple joint restriction or a complex disc issue, our diagnostic process ensures you receive the highest standard of chiropractic care in Plantation, FL.
Schedule Your Comprehensive Lumbar Exam Today!
Call Us Today: (954) 693-7601 to Learn More
book onlineLumbar Test FAQs
What is a lumbar test in chiropractic care?
A lumbar test evaluates the lower back to identify areas of dysfunction, nerve involvement, or restricted movement.
Why is lumbar testing important?
It helps your chiropractor accurately diagnose the source of low back pain and develop a personalized treatment plan.
What conditions can a lumbar test detect?
It can help identify disc issues, nerve irritation, muscle imbalances, and joint restrictions.
Is lumbar testing painful?
No, most lumbar tests are gentle and designed to assess movement and function without causing discomfort.