How accurate is straight leg test?

The test has a sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 26% Observe the patient for confirming ipsilateral calf wasting and weak ankle dorsiflexion, which makes the diagnosis of sciatica 5 times more likely.

What is considered a positive straight leg raise?

The test is positive when raising the leg between 30 to 70 degrees causes pain to occur and radiate down the leg to at least below the knee, and often all the way down to the great toe (sensitivity 91%, specificity 26%).

What does the seated straight leg raise test evaluate?

The straight leg raise test, also called the Lasegue test, is a fundamental maneuver during the physical examination of a patient with lower back pain. It aims to assess for lumbosacral nerve root irritation. This test can be positive in a variety of conditions, though lumbar disc herniation is the most common.

What is positive Waddell signs?

The test is positive when the patient reports pain on formal SLR examination such as on supine and the pain markedly decrease on performing the distracted SLR when the examiner extends the knee with the patient sitting.

What is a negative straight leg test?

A negative test suggests a likely different cause for back pain. A positive straight leg test reproduces radiating leg pain. If it only causes back pain, then the test is negative.

Is straight leg raise test positive in spinal stenosis?

Most patients with a true positive straight leg raising sign complain of excruciating sciatica-like pain in the elevated leg at 30 to 40 degrees of elevation. This sign is usually absent in patients with lumbar stenosis.

How long should you do legs up the wall?

Swing your legs up against the wall as you turn to lie flat on your back. Place your hips against the wall or slightly away. Place your arms in any comfortable position. Stay in this position for up to 20 minutes.