Spine Orthopaedic Test: Mennell's Sign
Jun 02, 2023Mennell's sign is a clinical test used to assess the presence of a spinal lesion or dysfunction. It involves applying passive joint movements to the spine while the patient is lying in a relaxed position.
Here's a step-by-step procedure for performing the Mennell's sign test:
- Have the patient lie in a relaxed position on their side with the affected side facing up.
- Begin by flexing the patient's hip and knee to a 90-degree angle, keeping the ankle in a neutral position.
- Place your hand on the patient's shoulder to stabilize the upper body, and grasp the patient's ankle with your other hand.
- Slowly lift the patient's leg while keeping the knee flexed, until you feel resistance or the patient experiences pain.
- Hold the leg in this position for a few seconds, and then slowly lower it back down.
- Repeat the test with the patient's hip and knee extended, and then again with the patient lying on their opposite side.
References:
- Mennell, J. M. (1944). The “spinal irritation” syndrome. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 26(4), 751-757.
- Edmondston, S. J., & Singer, K. P. (1997). Thoracic spine: anatomical and biomechanical considerations for manual therapy. Manual Therapy, 2(3), 132-143.
- Dreyfuss, P. H., Michaelsen, M., & Pauza, K. (1996). The value of medical history and physical examination in diagnosing sacroiliac joint pain. Spine, 21(22), 2594-2602.
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