MEDIAL-LATERAL

GRIND TEST

​• Test positioning

The client lies supine.

The therapist stands next to the involved side and holds the client's foot.

The therapist's other hand is placed over the joint line of the knee.

​• Action

The therapist passively flexes the client's hip and knee maximally and then applies a circular motion with the tibia, rotating the tibia clockwise and counter-clockwise.

​• Positive finding

Pain, grinding, or clicking is indicative of a meniscal tear.

​• Special considerations & comments

Varus and valgus stress may be simultaneously applied by the hand over the joint line as the knee is passively extended (Anderson medial lateral grind test).

The Medial-Lateral Grind Test is based on principles from Dr. James Cyriax in assessing joint instability, with contributions from Dr. Alan Apley’s work in meniscal evaluations further refining its use in clinical practice.