Special Tests of the Knee

From Laura Inverarity, D.O., former About.com Guide

Updated June 08, 2005

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

The anterior drawer test evaluates the anterior cruciate ligament. To perform this test, place the knee in ninety degrees of flexion with the patient laying supine and the foot stabilized on the table. Grasp the posterior aspect of the tibia over the upper calf muscle and pull forward with a steady force. If the tibia bone pulls forward more than normal (compare with the uninjured leg) the test is positive. This is indicative of an anterior cruciate ligament tear.

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• Overview
• Anterior Drawer Test
• Posterior Drawer Test
• Valgus Stress Test
• Varus Stress Test

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