Introduction
The knee joint is one of the most crucial joints in the human body that helps us in our day to day activities. It is responsible for stabilizing the body during movements such as running, jumping and walking. However, due to various physical activities, the knee joint may become weak and vulnerable to injuries. Therefore, it becomes essential to access the flexibility, motion and strength of the knee joint regularly. And the best way to do that is by performing knee joint flexion and extension tests.
Preparation
Before initiating the knee flexion and extension test, it is essential to look for a quiet and spacious location with enough room to move around freely. It is also recommended that the person performing the test wears comfortable and stretchy clothing. Shoes should also be loose-fitting to allow maximum flexibility to the ankle. Next, the patient should stand approximately 60cm away from the wall, parallel while the evaluator stands by the side.
Knee Flexion Test
The knee flexion test is performed in a seated position. The evaluator should sit sideways with one hand holding the ankle while their other hand supports the knee. The patient should then be asked to lift their leg straight up towards their chest as much as possible before slowly lowering it back down. This test should be repeated at least five to ten times. The evaluator should ensure that the patient does not bend their back or lift their other leg.
Knee Extension Test
The knee extension test should be used to check the function of the quadriceps muscles in the patient's thigh. They should be performed in a lying position, with the patient lying on their back with their knee, and hip fully straightened. The evaluator should ensure the patient is relaxed, with arms by the side. They should then press down on the patient's lower leg, with the patient instructed to push back on the evaluators hand to create resistance.
Validity of the Results
While the knee joint flexion and extension tests are essential to assess the strength and flexibility of the knee joint, it is essential to analyze the results in the context of the patient's overall medical history. The results of the knee tests may vary and not be wholly reliable at times due to factors such as pain, discomfort, previous injuries and various other medical conditions. Therefore, it is essential to discuss the results with a professional medical practitioner to get a comprehensive evaluation of the knee joint's health.
Conclusion
The knee joint flexion and extension tests are simple yet effective ways of assessing the strength and flexibility of the knee joint. These tests can help spot potential weak points in the joint and facilitate the development of appropriate remedial exercises to prevent future knee joint injuries. However, it is crucial to perform knee tests under the guidance of a professional medical practitioner to ensure the correct implementation of these tests and the accuracy of the results.
