If you have a posterior torsion, what do you expect for a sphinx and spring test?

If you have a posterior torsion, what do you expect for a sphinx and spring test?

• A. Positive spring (there will be no spring)
• B. Negative sphinx (dysfunction will worsen)
• C. Negative spring (no spring)
• D. Sphinx test will worsen the dysfunction

Answer: (A)

Spring testing gauges how freely the sacral base can move forward when you apply an anterior force from the back. In a posterior torsion, the sacrum is rotated so its base sits backward and its forward motion is restricted. When you attempt to spring the sacral base, there’s little to no give—the sacrum doesn’t spring forward. This lack of spring is described as a positive spring test, i.e., there will be no spring felt. So, the best expectation for a posterior torsion is a positive spring test.

Spring testing gauges how freely the sacral base can move forward when you apply an anterior force from the back. In a posterior torsion, the sacrum is rotated so its base sits backward and its forward motion is restricted. When you attempt to spring the sacral base, there’s little to no give—the sacrum doesn’t spring forward. This lack of spring is described as a positive spring test, i.e., there will be no spring felt. So, the best expectation for a posterior torsion is a positive spring test.