HOMANS

SIGN

​• Test positioning

The client lies supine on a table

​• Action

With the knee of the involved side fully extended, the therapist passively dorsiflexes the client's foot.

​• Positive finding

A production of pain in the calf that is brought upon by the passive stretch of the foot into a dorsiflexed position is a positive sign for thrombophlebitis.

​• Special considerations & comments

Pain may also be elicited upon palpation of the calf in conjunction with the passive stretch.

A positive finding indicates a life-threatening condition that should be addressed by appropriate medical personnel immediately.