Cyriax Release Test | Rationale & Interpretation

The video tutorial explains the Cyriax release test, a diagnostic tool for thoracic outlet syndrome. It covers patient positioning, test execution, and interpretation of results. The test involves positioning the patient with elbows at 90 degrees and thumbs up, leaning the trunk back, and elevating the shoulder girdles. A positive test is indicated by numbness or familiar symptoms. The test's specificity is high, with 97% for symptoms under a minute and 88% for one to three minutes. The test also offers a treatment based on the test position.

What is the correct position for the patient's elbows during the Cyriax release test?

• Completely flexed

• 80 to 90 degrees of flexion

• 45 degrees of flexion

• Fully extended

During the Cyriax release test, how should the patient's forearms be positioned?

• Crossed over the chest

• Supination

• Pronation

• Radial ulnar neutral

What is the duration for which the test position is held during the Cyriax release test?

• One minute

• Five minutes

• Two minutes

• Three minutes

What is indicated by a positive Cyriax release test?

• Lower extremity weakness

• Upper extremity numbness and paresthesias

• Improved range of motion

• Increased muscle strength

What is the specificity of the Cyriax release test if symptoms appear in under a minute?

• 100%

• 80%

• 88%

• 97%