Knee ACL & PCL Evidence: suggestive

External Rotation Recurvatum Test Special Test

Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide

External Rotation Recurvatum Test Orthopedic Special Test

What is it used for?

  • Diagnosing Posterolateral Corner (PLC) instability or PCL injury.

How to Perform

  • Position: Patient supine, legs extended.
  • Action: Examiner lifts both legs by the great toes.
  • Observation: Look at the tibial tuberosity and knee hyperextension.

Interpretation of Results

  • Positive Test: The affected knee falls into excessive hyperextension (recurvatum) and the tibia rotates externally (tibial tuberosity shifts laterally).

References

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