Hip Orthopaedic Test: Gaenslen Test

The Gaenslen test is a physical examination technique used to assess for hip joint pathology, such as sacroiliac joint dysfunction or hip joint arthritis.

Here are the steps to perform the Gaenslen test:

1. Have the patient lie down on their back on the examination table with their legs straight.

2. Ask the patient to flex their unaffected hip and hold their knee to their chest.

3. Ask the patient to extend their affected hip, letting the leg hang off the edge of the examination table.

4. Apply downward pressure on the patient's flexed knee, pushing it towards the examination table.

5. Ask the patient to extend their affected hip further, allowing the leg to drop even further off the edge of the examination table.

6. Observe the patient's face for any signs of pain or discomfort, and note any limitations in range of motion or joint mobility.

References:

1. Magee, D.J. (2014). Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 6th edition. Elsevier Health Sciences.
2. Muscolino, J.E. (2016). The Muscle and Bone Palpation Manual with Trigger Points, Referral Patterns and Stretching. 2nd edition. Mosby.
3. Physical Therapy Haven website (www.physicaltherapyhaven.com) - This website provides detailed information on various physical therapy tests and measures, including the Gaenslen test.
4. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) website (www.apta.org) - The APTA is a professional organization for physical therapists that provides resources and information on various clinical examinations, including the Gaenslen test.