How do you perform the Goldthwait Test?

• A. Patient standing, palpating the hip joint
• B. Patient supine, knees extended, palpate LS joint and perform SLR
• C. Patient sitting with knees bent
• D. Patient supine, knees flexed to 90

Answer: (B)

The Goldthwait Test is performed to differentiate between lumbar spine and hip issues. The correct method, which involves the patient being supine with their knees extended, provides an effective way to assess these areas. During the test, you palpate the lumbosacral joint while performing a straight leg raise (SLR).

This approach is essential because by palpating the lumbosacral joint, you can assess whether pain arises from the lumbar region or the hip joint. If pain occurs during the SLR before the lumbosacral joint is palpated, it typically indicates a lumbar spine issue. Conversely, if pain arises after palpation, it is more likely to be related to the hip.

The other methods mentioned do not align with the specific requirements of the Goldthwait Test. For instance, standing palpation or bending the knees does not allow for the necessary assessment of the SLR in conjunction with lumbosacral palpation, which is core to the accurate diagnosis this test aims to achieve.