Definition: A straight leg raise test is done by having the patient lie flat on a bed. With the leg straight, the patient should then raise their foot off the bed and hold it in the air. The straight leg raise tests the function of the the quadriceps muscle and its attachment to the shin bone. A disruption of the quadriceps tendon, patella, or patellar tendon can lead to inability to perform a straight leg raise.
Straight Leg Raise Test
By Jonathan Cluett, M.D., About.com Guide
Updated: February 26, 2006
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
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