In assessing the ankle, what is indicated by a positive Thompson test?

• A. Achilles tendon rupture.
• B. Plantar fasciitis.
• C. Ligamentous instability.
• D. Joint effusion.

Answer: (A)

A positive Thompson test specifically indicates an Achilles tendon rupture. During this test, the patient is positioned lying prone, and the examiner squeezes the calf muscles. If the Achilles tendon is intact, this action will naturally cause plantar flexion of the foot. However, if there is a rupture, the foot will not respond due to the loss of continuity in the tendon, indicating that the Achilles tendon is no longer able to function properly.

Understanding the significance of this test is critical, as an Achilles tendon rupture is a common injury, especially among athletes. In contrast, conditions such as plantar fasciitis, ligamentous instability, and joint effusion are assessed through different tests and methods, and they do not specifically involve the evaluation of the integrity of the Achilles tendon in the same manner that the Thompson test does.