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Resisted Isometric Testing of the Knee

Source: Physiotutors

Execution

  1. 1Position the patient sitting or supine with the knee supported.
  2. 2Resist knee extension isometrically to assess the quadriceps and extensor mechanism.
  3. 3Resist knee flexion isometrically to assess the hamstrings.
  4. 4Resist ankle plantar flexion and dorsiflexion because gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior screening may help with knee and neurological assessment.
  5. 5Record pain, weakness, rupture signs, cramping, neurological pattern, and side-to-side difference.

Positive outcome

Abnormal findings: pain, weakness, rupture signs, cramping, or a neurological pattern with contraction.

Interpretation
  • Pain with contraction: contractile-tissue involvement
  • Weakness without pain: rupture, neurological deficit, inhibition, or poor effort
  • Localize pain at the patellar tendon, quadriceps tendon, pes anserine region, or posterior knee
Clinical pearl

This is a contractile-tissue screen rather than a diagnostic-accuracy test. Pair it with palpation and functional loading when tendinopathy or rupture is suspected.

CommentMagee includes resisted knee flexion, knee extension, ankle plantar flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion in the knee precis. This is a contractile-tissue screen rather than a diagnostic-accuracy test. Pair it with palpation and functional loading when tendinopathy or rupture is suspected.

Low Clinical Value

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