LONG BONE

COMPRESSION TEST

​• Test positioning

The client sits with the affected leg extended and the foot off the end of the examining table.

The therapist stands at the end of the table near the subject's foot.

​• Action

The therapist applies compression along the long axis of the bone of the toe or metatarsal being tested.

​• Positive finding

Pain at the site of injury is indicative of a fracture.

​• Special considerations & comments

This test should not be performed if there is an obvious deformity.

The Long Bone Compression Test is based on principles from Dr. James Cyriax for diagnosing fractures through axial loading of the bones in the lower extremity, particularly in the foot.