The Buerger test is used to assess arterial sufficiency. It carries Leo Buerger’s name. The angle at which the supine leg must be raised before it fades is called the vascular angle, also known as Buerger’s angle. Even when the limb is elevated 90 degrees, the toes and sole of the foot remain pink in…
The leg length test is a simple yet informative diagnostic examination frequently used in the fields physical therapy, and orthopedics. It serves as an essential tool for assessing the structural alignment and biomechanics of the lower limbs, particularly the legs, and can provide valuable insights into a patient’s musculoskeletal health. Definition/Description Leg Length Disparity Types…
What is the Thompson Test? The Thompson test, also known as the calf squeeze test, is a simple physical examination technique used to assess the integrity of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus). This test is often performed by medical professionals, such as orthopedic doctors, Physical Therapists, or…
Introduction The “talar tilt test” is a clinical assessment used to evaluate the stability of the ankle joint, particularly the integrity of the lateral ligaments. It is commonly performed when there is suspicion of an ankle sprain or instability. Purpose The goal of this examination is to evaluate for injuries to the Anterior Talofibular ligament…
The Brudzinski and Kernig tests are two clinical maneuvers used to assess for signs of meningitis, a serious infection, or inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. These tests are typically performed during a physical examination and help evaluate the presence of meningeal irritation. Introduction One of the visible signs of meningitis is…
What is a Golfer’s Elbow Test? The golfer’s elbow test is a simple physical examination that helps diagnose medial epicondylitis, commonly known as golfer’s elbow. This condition involves inflammation and pain in the tendons that attach to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow. If the person experiences pain along the inside of…
The Elbow Plica Impingement Test, also known as the Elbow Flexion Test or the Plica Syndrome Test, is a physical examination technique used to assess for the presence of plica syndrome in the elbow. Plica syndrome refers to the irritation or inflammation of the synovial folds or plicae within a joint, leading to pain and…
Introduction The Prone Instability Test (PIT) is a clinical assessment used to evaluate the presence of instability in the lumbar spine. It is primarily used by healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists and chiropractors, to assess patients with low back pain. The Prone Instability test is an orthopedic test used to evaluate radiographic lumbar instability,…
Beevor sign is a clinical examination maneuver used to assess the function of the abdominal muscles, specifically the rectus abdominis muscle. It involves observing the movement of the umbilicus (belly button) during a supine maneuver where the patient raises their head and shoulders slightly off the examination table. If the umbilicus moves upwards or deviates…
Special tests play a crucial role in the assessment and diagnosis of lumbar spine dysfunction. The lumbar spine, located in the lower back, is prone to various conditions and injuries that can cause pain, restricted movement, and impaired function. Special tests are specific physical examinations performed by healthcare professionals to evaluate the integrity and functionality…
