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Phalen’s Test for Lumbar Stenosis


  - this test attempts to reproduce symptoms of leg pain, weakness, or numbness by causing neural ischemia;
  - w/ patient upright, bend the patient into extension for a full minute;
  - this should accentuate the Spinal Stenosis;
  - positive test will produce a crescendo of leg symptoms followed by rapid relief of these symptoms when pt flexes forward, places his
       hands on examination table, and places one foot on a stool