Ankle Anterior Drawer Test Special Test

What is it used for?

• Diagnosing injuries to the Anterior Talofibular Ligament (ATFL).
• Assessing ankle instability.

How to Perform

• Position: Patient lies on their back (supine) with the foot relaxed.
• Stabilization: Hold the lower leg (tibia and fibula) steady with one hand.
• Action: Place the foot in slight plantar flexion (20°), grasp the heel (calcaneus), and pull the foot forward.

Interpretation of Results

• Positive Test: Excessive forward movement (translation) of the foot compared to the healthy side.
• Dimple Sign: A dimple may appear over the ligament area if pain is minimal.

Diagnostic Accuracy

• Sensitivity: 96-100% (Magee)

References

• Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment (7th ed.). Elsevier.
• Miller, M. D. (2020). Miller's Review of Orthopaedics (8th ed.). Elsevier.