Examination of the Knee

Question 1

Look?

Answer 1

Symmetry

Allignment

Varus/valgus deformity

Fixed flexion of the knee

Rashes

Wounds

Scars

Swelling

Wasting of quadriceps muscles

Question 2

Feel

Answer 2

Temperature

Tenderness along border of patella, extensor mechanism, and medial and lateral joint lines

Popliteal cysts

Knee effusion (patellar tap)

Bulge test

Question 3

What do you move?

Answer 3

Flex knee

Extend knee

(active and passive)

During passive detect crepitus

Compare movement of both knees

Hyperextension

Straight leg raise

Collaterals​

Cruciate Ligaments (posterior sag and anterior draw)

Question 4

Function

Answer 4

Gait (limp, valgus/varus deformity or fixed flexion gait)

Examine hip and foot