The leg raise test, also known as the Straight Leg Raise or Lasegue's Test, is performed by lifting a person's leg while they are lying down to assess for nerve-related issues, particularly in the lower back.
Performing the Leg Raise Test
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to perform a leg raise test:
- Patient Positioning: Have the person lie flat on their back.
- Starting Position: You will be positioning yourself by the patient's lower extremity.
- Hand Placement: Place one hand underneath the back of their leg, near the ankle for support.
- Lifting the Leg: Lift the leg straight up, keeping the knee extended. You should be lifting the leg slowly and smoothly.
- Observing Range of Motion: Continue lifting until the patient experiences pain or discomfort.
- Determining a Positive Test: According to the reference video, the test is considered positive if pain occurs between 40 and 70 degrees of hip flexion (lifting the leg).
Interpreting Results
| Test Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Positive Result | Pain between 40-70 degrees of hip flexion may indicate nerve root compression or other nerve-related issues. |
| Negative Result | Minimal to no pain during the range of motion, which may suggest nerve involvement is less likely. |
Additional Notes
- It is vital to do this test with caution.
- The test is usually performed bilaterally, that is, both legs are tested separately to allow for comparison.
- The leg raise test should be performed by someone who has the proper training for it.
