What denotes a present Neri Sign?

• A. Flexion of both knees while standing
• B. The affected leg flexes at the knee with reported pain while bending over
• C. The patient cannot bend the knee at all
• D. Numbness in the affected leg

Answer: (B)

A present Neri Sign is characterized by the affected leg flexing at the knee accompanied by reported pain when the individual bends over. This sign is specifically indicative of irritation or involvement of the sciatic nerve or other structures in the lumbar region that may be compromised, often related to conditions such as a herniated disc. The knee flexion occurs as a protective mechanism to reduce the strain on the affected nerve root when the patient attempts to reach down or bend forward.

In contrast, the other options describe different scenarios that do not accurately capture the mechanics of the Neri Sign. Flexion of both knees while standing does not specifically indicate a reaction to pain or nerve involvement, thus it lacks the specific context needed. The inability to bend the knee at all might denote more severe conditions but does not reflect the adjusted position in response to pain during bending. Numbness in the affected leg may indicate nerve involvement, but it does not describe the specific muscular reflex and pain response that defines a positive Neri Sign.