During the Goldthwait Test, which side do you palpate?

• A. Uninvolved side only
• B. Bilateral sides
• C. Symptomatic side only
• D. Opposite side only

Answer: (C)

In the Goldthwait Test, palpating the symptomatic side is essential to effectively assess for possible lumbar or sacroiliac involvement. This test is used to differentiate between conditions related to the lumbar spine and those stemming from the sacroiliac joint. By palpating the symptomatic side, the examiner can directly monitor for pain response or other signs that may indicate where the issue lies.

When focusing on the symptomatic side, the practitioner can observe how movement and palpation affect the patient's discomfort. If pain is elicited on this side during the test, it could suggest that the pathology is more closely related to structures in the lumbar region, whereas the absence of symptoms might shift the suspicion to a different region. The symmetrical assessment of the opposite or uninvolved side can sometimes be a part of the overall examination process, but the critical focus during the Goldthwait Test is on the symptomatic side to draw appropriate conclusions about the nature of the patient’s complaint.