How is the active straight leg raise test beneficial in assessing lower extremity function?

How is the active straight leg raise test beneficial in assessing lower extremity function?

• A. It evaluates core and hip strength while stabilizing the pelvis.
• B. It measures the range of motion in the hip joint.
• C. It identifies nerve damage in the lower limbs.
• D. It assesses blood flow to the lower extremities.

Answer: (A)

The active straight leg raise test is particularly beneficial in assessing lower extremity function because it evaluates core and hip strength while stabilizing the pelvis. During this test, a patient raises one leg while keeping the other leg flat on the ground, which requires not only hip flexion but also the engagement of the core muscles to stabilize the pelvis. A strong core is essential for proper movement patterns and preventing injuries in the lower extremities. By assessing the ability to perform this movement, practitioners can gain insight into the patient's overall strength and stability, which are crucial for functional activities and athletic performance. The other options, although they may relate to aspects of lower extremity assessment, do not accurately represent the primary benefits of the active straight leg raise test. The test is not specifically designed to measure the range of motion of the hip joint, identify nerve damage, or assess blood flow, making option A the most relevant and accurate choice for this test's purpose.

The active straight leg raise test is particularly beneficial in assessing lower extremity function because it evaluates core and hip strength while stabilizing the pelvis. During this test, a patient raises one leg while keeping the other leg flat on the ground, which requires not only hip flexion but also the engagement of the core muscles to stabilize the pelvis. A strong core is essential for proper movement patterns and preventing injuries in the lower extremities. By assessing the ability to perform this movement, practitioners can gain insight into the patient's overall strength and stability, which are crucial for functional activities and athletic performance.

The other options, although they may relate to aspects of lower extremity assessment, do not accurately represent the primary benefits of the active straight leg raise test. The test is not specifically designed to measure the range of motion of the hip joint, identify nerve damage, or assess blood flow, making option A the most relevant and accurate choice for this test's purpose.