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.