Video lesson
Key points
Inspect for effusion, alignment and quadriceps bulk. Palpate the joint line, patella and bursae. Check range of motion and test for effusion with the bulge sign or patellar tap.
Practical approach
Ligament tests: Lachman for ACL, posterior drawer for PCL, valgus and varus stress at 0 and 30 degrees. Meniscus: joint line tenderness and McMurray. Gait observation completes the exam.
Pearls
A warm effusion with fever needs aspiration to exclude septic arthritis.
At a glance
Category
Exam skills
Reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD, FACR
Questions about your own care?
Book an in-person or telehealth consultation with Dr. Tahir.
For education only. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without talking to your care team.