Which combination of findings would suggest cervical radiculopathy?

• A. Complaints of dizziness and nausea
• B. Positive Spurling's test and distraction test
• C. Full range of motion with pain
• D. Absence of neurological symptoms

Answer: (B)

The combination of findings that would suggest cervical radiculopathy is characterized by the presence of specific tests that indicate nerve root irritation or compression. The Spurling's test, when positive, indicates that there is a reproduction of radicular symptoms when the cervical spine is extended and rotated toward the affected side. This suggests impingement of the nerve root.

Additionally, the distraction test, which involves applying a cephalad force to relieve tension on the cervical spine, would typically lead to a reduction or relief of symptoms if cervical radiculopathy is present. The positive results from these two tests together provide strong clinical evidence for cervical radiculopathy, as they highlight both the provocative nature of the position and the alleviating factors that accompany the condition.

In contrast, the other options do not provide the specific combination of symptoms and test results that would lead to a diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy. For example, complaints of dizziness and nausea do not directly relate to neurological symptoms caused by cervical nerve root issues, while a full range of motion with pain may indicate other forms of musculoskeletal disorders rather than radiculopathy. The absence of neurological symptoms would negate the possibility of radiculopathy altogether, as this condition is specifically characterized by neurological deficits such as pain,