How is the Sacral Thrust performed in the Cluster of Laslett?

• A. Patient sitting with a straight back
• B. Patient seated on an examination table
• C. Patient prone with thrusting down on sacrum
• D. Patient supine with pressure applied to ASIS

Answer: (C)

The Sacral Thrust is a specific assessment technique used in the Cluster of Laslett to evaluate for sacroiliac joint dysfunction. This technique involves placing the patient in a prone position, which allows for effective palpation and application of a downward thrust directly on the sacrum. In this position, the practitioner can apply a force that takes advantage of the body's alignment and gravity to test for pain response, which can indicate dysfunction in the sacroiliac region.

Thrusting down on the sacrum while the patient is prone facilitates a more controlled and precise application of force. This positioning is essential because it allows the practitioner to effectively isolate the sacrum and the underlying structures, providing clearer insights into the patient's condition.

Other positions, such as sitting or supine, do not allow for the same level of targeted force application on the sacrum and may not elicit the same responses that are helpful in diagnosing sacroiliac dysfunction, making them less suitable for this specific test.