How is the Femoral Nerve Traction Test performed?

• A. The patient stands and flexes at the hips
• B. The patient is seated while the doctor applies pressure
• C. The patient is prone and the doctor lifts the leg up under the knee while stabilizing the ipsilateral SI joint
• D. The patient lies supine with legs extended

Answer: (C)

The Femoral Nerve Traction Test is performed to assess the integrity of the femoral nerve and its potential entrapment or irritation. The correct method involves positioning the patient prone while the clinician lifts the leg under the knee, stabilizing the ipsilateral sacroiliac (SI) joint. This technique effectively elongates the femoral nerve as it runs through the pelvis and down the thigh. By lifting the leg in this manner while stabilizing the SI joint, the clinician can appropriately assess for any reproduction of symptoms associated with nerve tension, confirming whether the femoral nerve is impacted.

In this position, the nerve is placed under tension, enabling the clinician to evaluate for pain or discomfort that may indicate nerve pathology. The specific stabilization of the SI joint prevents unwanted movement that could confound the results of the test, allowing for a more accurate assessment of nerve involvement.

Other methods mentioned do not effectively reproduce the necessary mechanical stress on the femoral nerve or provide adequate stabilization, making them less useful for this specific assessment.