Spine Orthopaedic Test: Sacroiliac Compression Test

The sacroiliac compression test is a physical examination maneuver used to evaluate for sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Here is a step-by-step procedure for performing the test:

1. Ask the patient to lie on their back on an examination table with their legs straight.
2. Stand on the side of the patient's pelvis that you will be testing.
3. Locate the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) on the side being tested.
4. Place your thumbs on the PSIS and your fingers on the patient's anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) on the same side.
5. Apply downward pressure on the PSIS with your thumbs while simultaneously lifting the ASIS upward with your fingers.
6. Hold the pressure for several seconds and ask the patient if they experience any pain or discomfort during the test.
7. Repeat the maneuver on the opposite side.

The sacroiliac compression test is considered positive if the patient reports pain or discomfort in the sacroiliac joint during the maneuver. However, it's important to note that a positive test alone is not sufficient to diagnose sacroiliac joint dysfunction and should be considered in conjunction with other clinical findings and diagnostic tests.

References:

1. Maigne, J. Y., Aivaliklis, A., & Pfefer, F. (2008). Results of sacroiliac joint double block and value of sacroiliac pain provocation tests in 54 patients with low back pain. Spine, 33(11), 1231-1237.
2. Schwarzer, A. C., Aprill, C. N., & Bogduk, N. (1995). The sacroiliac joint in chronic low back pain. Spine, 20(1), 31-37.
3. Laslett, M., Young, S. B., Aprill, C. N., & McDonald, B. (2003). Diagnosing painful sacroiliac joints: A validity study of a McKenzie evaluation and sacroiliac provocation tests. Australian Journal of Physiotherapy, 49(2), 89-97.
4. Szadek, K. M., van der Wurff, P., van Tulder, M. W., Zuurmond, W. W., & Perez, R. S. (2009). Diagnostic validity of criteria for sacroiliac joint pain: A systematic review. Journal of Pain, 10(4), 354-368.