Sacroiliac Joint - Special Test

Question 1

Gillet’s Test

Answer 1

purpose: Assess SI joint hypomobility - posterior movement of the ilium relative to sacrum

perform: Patient standing. Palpate PSIS and S2. Patient lifts one knee to chest.

positive: No posterior movement of PSIS = hypomobility

Question 2

Ipsilateral Anterior Rotation Test

Answer 2

purpose: Assess SI mobility - anterior movement of ilium relative to sacrum

perform: Palpate PSIS and S2 while patient extends ipsilateral leg from standing.

positive: Lack of anterior rotation = hypomobility

Question 3

Gaenslen’s Test

Answer 3

purpose: SI joint dysfunction

perform: Patient supine at edge of table; one leg pulled to chest, opposite hangs off edge. Apply pressure to both legs.

positive: Pain in SI region = positive

Question 4

Long Sitting Test (Supine to Sit)

Answer 4

purpose: Leg length change due to SI dysfunction

perform: Compare medial malleoli in supine and then in long sitting.

positive: Change in leg length = anterior/posterior rotation of ilium

Question 5

Goldthwait’s Test

Answer 5

purpose: Differentiate lumbar vs SI pathology

perform: Patient supine. Examiner palpates lumbar spine and performs SLR.

positive: Pain before lumbar movement = SI; pain after = lumbar