What is a positive finding in the Straight Leg Raise test?

What is a positive finding in the Straight Leg Raise test?

• A. Reduction in lower extremity strength
• B. Radiating pain down posterior aspect of the LE
• C. Increased muscle tension in the lower back
• D. No radiating pain or discomfort

Answer: (B)

The Straight Leg Raise test is primarily used to evaluate the presence of nerve root irritation or lumbar disc herniation, particularly involving the L4-S1 nerve roots. A positive finding in this test is characterized by radiating pain that travels down the posterior aspect of the lower extremity, typically indicating nerve involvement. When the leg is raised while keeping the knee straight, it stretches the sciatic nerve and its branches, as well as the lumbar nerve roots exiting the spinal column. If a patient experiences pain that radiates down the back of the leg during this maneuver, it suggests that there might be an issue such as disc herniation or sciatica affecting those nerve pathways. In contrast, while reduced strength, increased muscle tension, or the absence of pain may indicate other conditions or factors, they do not align with the specific indications of nerve root irritation that the test is designed to assess. Thus, the presence of radiating pain down the posterior aspect of the lower extremity is a critical sign that clinicians look for during the test.

The Straight Leg Raise test is primarily used to evaluate the presence of nerve root irritation or lumbar disc herniation, particularly involving the L4-S1 nerve roots. A positive finding in this test is characterized by radiating pain that travels down the posterior aspect of the lower extremity, typically indicating nerve involvement.

When the leg is raised while keeping the knee straight, it stretches the sciatic nerve and its branches, as well as the lumbar nerve roots exiting the spinal column. If a patient experiences pain that radiates down the back of the leg during this maneuver, it suggests that there might be an issue such as disc herniation or sciatica affecting those nerve pathways.

In contrast, while reduced strength, increased muscle tension, or the absence of pain may indicate other conditions or factors, they do not align with the specific indications of nerve root irritation that the test is designed to assess. Thus, the presence of radiating pain down the posterior aspect of the lower extremity is a critical sign that clinicians look for during the test.