SLOCUM TEST WITH
INTERNAL TIBIA ROTATION
• Test positioning
The client lies supine with the test hip flexed to 45-degrees, knee flexed to 90-degrees, and tibia internally rotated 15 to 20 degrees.
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 an anterior force to the proximal tibia.
The hamstring tendons should be palpated frequently with the index fingers to ensure relaxation.
• Positive finding
Increased anterior tibial displacement, particularly of the lateral tibial condyle, as compared to the uninvolved side is indicative of anterolateral rotary instability (secondary to a partial or complete tear of primarily the ACL and posterolateral capsule).
• Special considerations & comments
The therapist must avoid maximally rotating the tibia, as this will tighten most of the surrounding structures and create a high potential for false-negative findings.