In the cross straight leg raise test, which leg is flexed?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the Orthopedic, Psychiatric, Endocarditis Exams. Enhance your skills with our engaging quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Get exam ready with our comprehensive study tools!

Multiple Choice

In the cross straight leg raise test, which leg is flexed?

Explanation:
In the cross straight leg raise, you flex the leg that is not currently symptomatic—the uninvolved leg. You raise that opposite leg with the other leg staying flat. If this maneuver reproduces the pain in the leg that is symptomatic, it signals contralateral nerve root irritation from a disc herniation, often a large one. The reason the uninvolved leg is the one flexed is that the test specifically looks for pain radiating in the opposite leg, which is a hallmark of this cross-pattern radiculopathy.

In the cross straight leg raise, you flex the leg that is not currently symptomatic—the uninvolved leg. You raise that opposite leg with the other leg staying flat. If this maneuver reproduces the pain in the leg that is symptomatic, it signals contralateral nerve root irritation from a disc herniation, often a large one. The reason the uninvolved leg is the one flexed is that the test specifically looks for pain radiating in the opposite leg, which is a hallmark of this cross-pattern radiculopathy.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy