Active Knee Extension Test
Purpose[edit | edit source]
The Active Knee Extension Test is used to assess hamstring muscle length and the range of active knee extension in the position of hip flexion. The hamstrings length has been associated with altered lordotic posture and increased incidence of lower limb injuries. [1]
Traditionally the length of hamstrings was measured by an SLR , however due to the pelvis movement without stabilisation, the hamstring length could no be isolated. The SLR applies tension to the sciatic nerve and hence is a key neurodynamic evaluation tool, as compared to the active knee extension test.
Technique[edit | edit source]
- The patient should lie in a supine position with their hips and knees flexed to 90° and ensuring that the lumbar spine remains as neutral as possible.
- Ask the patient to stabilise their legs into this position by grabbing onto the back of their thigh (just above the back of their knee).
- Ask the patient to actively extend their knee (straighten their knee)
Evidence[edit | edit source]
This test is highly reliable if the body positions are stabilised adequately.[2]This test has also been effective when administered by self, which is a self monitored version of the active knee extension test. [3]The interrater and intrarater reliability has been established among healthy adults.[4]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Norris CM, Matthews M. Inter-tester reliability of a self-monitored active knee extension test. Journal of bodywork and movement therapies. 2005 Oct 1;9(4):256-9.
- ↑ Gajdosik R, Lusin G. Hamstring muscle tightness: reliability of an active-knee-extension test. Physical therapy. 1983 Jul 1;63(7):1085-8.
- ↑ Norris CM, Matthews M. Inter-tester reliability of a self-monitored active knee extension test. Journal of bodywork and movement therapies. 2005 Oct 1;9(4):256-9.
- ↑ Olivencia O, Godinez GM, Dages J, Duda C, Kaplan K, Kolber MJ. THE RELIABILITY AND MINIMAL DETECTABLE CHANGE OF THE ELY AND ACTIVE KNEE EXTENSION TESTS. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. 2020 Oct;15(5):776.
Content to be added on Active Knee Extension test as part of musculoskeletal screening tests.
