cervical distraction test performed to assess a space occupying condition of the cervical spine

Special Orthopedic Assessment Tests for the Neck – Space Occupying Conditions

The term “space occupying condition” is used to describe a condition in which there is compression on a spinal nerve in the intervertebral foramen.

herniated disc with compression of the spinal nerve in the intervertebral foramen

Pathologic Disc Conditions of the Neck

The danger with a disc bulge or herniation is that the disc can compress the spinal nerve within the intervertebral foramen, causing a pinched nerve.