Ankle & Foot Assessment
- Paul Williamson
- Jun 29, 2023
- 1 min read
Updated: Jan 31
Special Tests for the Foot & Ankle
There are a plethora of clinical assessments used to identify a variety of foot and ankle injuries. Research into the diagnostic accuracy of these assessments demonstrate poor agreement and reliability. Combining the patient history, clinical findings & a variety of special tests may provide more confidence in an accurate diagnosis.
1st Ray Mobility
60 Degrees normal Dorsiflexion required
Positive if reduced Range of motion
Ankle Mobility
Passive Talocrural Joint Mobility (TCJ)
Note movement compared to contralateral side
Weight Bearing Dorsiflexion (WBDF)
10-15cm considered normal
1cm between sides normal
Note for any restriction
(anterior joint line versus soft tissue posterior chain)
Sub Talar Joint Mobility (STJ)
Note movement compared to contralateral side
Ankle Displacement
Non Weight Bearing Anterior Draw Test
Weight Bearing Anterior Draw Test
Positive if excessive translation is noted compared to contralateral side
Syndesmotic Ligament Integrity
External Rotation Test
Squeeze Test
Positive test if reproduction of patient pain during maneuver
Medial Ankle Ligament Integrity
Medial Deltoid Ligament Tenderness
Valgus Deltoid Stress Test
Positive if pain on palpation
Positive if excessive laxity &/or pain noted during stress test
Lateral Ankle Ligament Integrity
Lateral Ligament Tenderness
Talar Tilt test
Positive for pain on palpation overlying lateral ligaments
Positive for excessive laxity &/or pain noted during stress test
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