Execution
- 1Position the patient supine.
- 2Maximally flex the hip and knee.
- 3Palpate the medial or lateral joint line while rotating the tibia.
- 4Extend the knee while applying tibial rotation and varus or valgus stress to bias the meniscus.
- 5Repeat for both medial and lateral meniscus bias.
Positive outcome
A painful click, clunk, snap, or reproduction of joint line pain is positive. Medial meniscus testing commonly uses tibial external rotation with valgus stress, while lateral meniscus testing uses tibial internal rotation with varus stress. A click without pain is less meaningful.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hegedus et al. (2007) | systematic review | 52 | 78 | 2.36 | 0.62 |
| Smith et al. (2015) | systematic review and meta-analysis | 61 | 84 | 3.8 | 0.46 |
CommentMcMurray has variable sensitivity and only moderate specificity in systematic reviews. Magee notes that meniscus testing is not definitive without experience and a full history. A clear painful mechanical click is more meaningful than vague pain.
Moderate Clinical Value