Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

During a Left on Right sacral torsion, what is the nature of the spring test?

1. Positive

2. Negative

3. Inconclusive

4. Variable

The correct answer is: Negative

In the context of a Left on Right sacral torsion, the spring test evaluates the posterior (or backward) movement of the sacrum in response to pressure applied. In this specific situation, when pressure is applied toward the sacral base, a negative spring test indicates that the sacrum is in free motion and is able to move forward. This movement is typical for a Left on Right sacral torsion since the left side of the sacrum is dysfunctionally posterior and the right side is anterior, allowing for a more mobile and less restricted sacral base. This negative result suggests that the sacrum is not restricted in its ability to spring forward, supporting the conclusion of the torsion. Conversely, a positive spring test would indicate resistance to forward movement, which is not consistent with the dynamics of a Left on Right sacral torsion. In other types of sacral dysfunction, such as a right on left rotation, the spring test would yield a positive result due to the restrictive nature of torsion in those scenarios.