University of Scranton - Department of Physical Therapy
Edmund M. Kosmahl, PT, EdD
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PT351 ORTHOPAEDIC PT
LABORATORY SKILL
Dr. E. Kosmahl
STRAIGHT LEG RAISE TEST
Straight Leg Raise Test Picture

Purpose
  • To provoke a dural or root sign
Positive Response
  • Extra-segmental reference of pain (dural)
  • Segmental reference of pain (root)
Technique
  • Patient supine
  • Flex hip while maintaining knee extension
  • Amplify response by dorsiflexing ankle and/or flexing neck
Comments
  • This test is biased toward the lower part of the lumbo-sacral plexus (L4 - S1)
  • A crossed leg (opposite leg) response may indicate disk bulge medial to the opposite side root. 

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