Overview
Clark's test is a clinical procedure used to assess for damage to the retropatellar cartilage by evaluating pain response during quadriceps contraction.
Clark's Test Procedure
- The examiner applies gentle distal pressure on the patella, guiding it into the trochlear groove.
- The patient is instructed to contract the quadriceps muscle while the examiner prevents the patella from moving proximally.
Interpretation of Results
- Pain elicited during quadriceps contraction suggests possible damage to the retropatellar (articular) cartilage.