Overview
The lecture explains how to perform and interpret the femoral nerve stretch test to identify upper lumbar nerve root or femoral nerve irritation.
Femoral Nerve Stretch Test Procedure
- Patient lies prone while the examiner flexes the knee, bringing the heel toward the buttock.
- Examiner asks the patient if symptoms increase during knee flexion.
- If no symptoms appear, the examiner further extends the hip for greater nerve stretch.
Interpretation of Results
- The test is positive if the patient experiences significant back pain or pain in the lower limb joints.
- A positive result suggests irritation of the upper lumbar nerve roots or the femoral nerve.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Femoral Nerve Stretch Test — a clinical test to assess irritation in the upper lumbar nerve roots or femoral nerve.
- Upper Lumbar Nerve Roots — nerve roots emerging from the upper part of the lumbar spine.
- Irritation — abnormal response such as pain or discomfort due to nerve compression or inflammation.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice performing the femoral nerve stretch test as described.
- Review anatomy of the femoral nerve and lumbar nerve roots.