Spine Orthopaedic Test: Mennell's Sign

Mennell'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:

1. Have the patient lie in a relaxed position on their side with the affected side facing up.
2. Begin by flexing the patient's hip and knee to a 90-degree angle, keeping the ankle in a neutral position.
3. Place your hand on the patient's shoulder to stabilize the upper body, and grasp the patient's ankle with your other hand.
4. Slowly lift the patient's leg while keeping the knee flexed, until you feel resistance or the patient experiences pain.
5. Hold the leg in this position for a few seconds, and then slowly lower it back down.
6. Repeat the test with the patient's hip and knee extended, and then again with the patient lying on their opposite side.

References:

1. Mennell, J. M. (1944). The “spinal irritation” syndrome. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 26(4), 751-757.
2. Edmondston, S. J., & Singer, K. P. (1997). Thoracic spine: anatomical and biomechanical considerations for manual therapy. Manual Therapy, 2(3), 132-143.
3. 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.