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.

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.