Knee Other Tests Evidence: confirmed

Brush / Stroke Test (Swipe Test) Special Test

Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide

Brush / Stroke Test (Swipe Test) Orthopedic Special Test

What is it used for?

  • Detecting Minimal Knee Effusion (swelling) that Ballottement might miss.

How to Perform

  • Step 1: Stroke upwards on the medial side of the knee (to empty the fluid).
  • Step 2: Stroke downwards on the lateral side of the knee.

Interpretation of Results

  • Positive Test: A wave of fluid creates a bulge on the medial side. Graded from Trace to 3+.

Diagnostic Accuracy

  • More sensitive than Ballottement for small amounts of fluid (4-8ml).

References

  • Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.