BOWSTRING TEST

(CRAM TEST)

​• Test positioning

The client lies supine.

​• Action

The therapist performs a passive straight leg raise on the involved side.

If the client reports radiating pain with the straight leg raise the therapist then flexes the client's knee to approximately 20-degrees in an attempt to reduce painful symptoms.

The therapist then applies pressure to the popliteal area in an attempt to reproduce the radicular pain.

​• Positive finding

Paintful radicular reproduction following popliteal compression indicates tension on the sciatic nerve.

​• Special considerations & comments

It is important for the therapist to maintain the same degree of the client's hip flexion when flexion of the knee is performed.