WELL STRAIGHT

LEG RAISE TEST

(Fajersztajn’s Test)

​• Test positioning

The client lies supine on a table.

The therapist places one hand on the anterior aspect of the uninvolved leg slightly superior to the knee and the other hand around the heel of the ipsilateral calcaneus.

​• Action

The therapist passively flexes the client's uninvolved hip while maintaining the knee in an extended position.

​• Positive finding

Complaints of pain on the involved side indicate a positive test and may be related to vertebral disk damage

​• Special considerations & comments

This test was first described by Fajerstajn but is also known as a prostrate leg-raising test, Lhermitt's test, or a cross-over sign.

When this test is performed, a dural stretch is applied to both sides of the lower extremity.

Therefore, complaints of pain may be noted in a radicular manner.

The Well Straight Leg Raise Test, also known as Fajersztajn’s Test, is credited to Dr. Józef Fajersztajn.

His work in differentiating between sciatic nerve and lumbar spine pathology has been significant, with further refinements by Dr. James Cyriax.