PATELL TENDON LENGTH TEST

​• Test positioning

The client lies supine on a table.

​• Action

The therapist measures the distance between the superior pole of the patella to the inferior pole of the patella.

The therapist next measures the distance between the inferior pole of the patella and the tibial tubercle.

​• Positive finding

A ratio is taken between the first and second measurements.

A ratio of greater than 1 indicates patella baja, while a ratio of less than 1 indicates patella alta.

​• Special considerations & comments

Patella alta may predispose one to increased instability of the patellofemoral joint, while patella baja may predispose one to increased patellofemoral compressive forces and related pathologies.

The Patellar Tendon Length Test is based on Dr. James Cyriax’s principles in assessing tendon and ligament function in the knee joint, with further contributions from Dr. Alan Apley in understanding biomechanical stress on the patellar structures.