POSTERIOR DRAWER

TEST (Knee)

​• Test positioning

The client lies supine with the test hip flexed to 45-degrees, knee flexed to 90-degrees, and foot in a neutral position.

The therapist sits on the client's foot with both hands behind the client's proximal tibia and thumbs on the tibial plateau.

​• Action

Apply a posterior force to the proximal tibia.

​• Positive finding

Increased posterior tibial displacement as compared to the uninvolved side is indicative of a partial or complete tear of the PCL.

​• Special considerations & comments

It is important to maintain quadriceps and hamstring muscle relaxation during this test.

While applying a posterior force, the therapist should carefully assess any posterior "step-off" from the tibial plateau on the femur.

The Posterior Drawer Test is based on principles from Dr. James Cyriax in evaluating PCL injuries, with additional contributions from Dr. Jack Hughston in refining its use for assessing posterior knee instability.