COMPRESSION TEST

TEST POSITIONING

The client lies supine with the affected leg extended and the ankle/foot just off the examining table.

The therapist stands next to the client's leg and notes where the pain originates.

ACTION

The therapist squeezes the tibia and fibula together at some point away from the painful area.

POSITIVE FINDING

Pain at the site of injury may be indicative of a fracture.

Compression of the two bones may exaggerate pain at the fracture site.

CONSIDERATIONS & COMMENTS

This test should not be performed if there is an obvious deformity.

A positive test is not exclusive of a fracture.

It is recommended that an x-ray be obtained when suspicion of a fracture exists.