Possibilities include a herniated disc orspondylolysis, a stress fracture in the spine.
The straight leg raise is one of the most common manual tests done during physical exams.
Its goal is to check for nerve movement and sensitivity of nerve tissue to compression.
Eliza Snow / Getty Images
Be honest about what you feel.
That’s what it’s called when you raise your foot (the opposite of pointing your toes).
Then they’ll have you do it with your chin tucked into your chest.
The straight leg raise test has modifications.
It’s important to let the examiner know about your limitations.
That can also help you avoid an injury during the test.
Researchers were unable to reach a consensus as to whether the straight leg raise test helps with a diagnosis.
The straight leg raise test is also widely used to determine howstiff your hamstringsare.
But a 2018 study foundhamstring stiffnessisn’t usually detected by straight leg raise test results.
For the test, you’ll lie on your back with your legs straight.
The provider will have you perform simple movements and tell them how it feels.
Then they’ll raise your leg up to see if and at what point you have symptoms.
Research suggests this test may not always be effective.
Still, it’s a very common test.
Providers often use this test alongside imaging studies.
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