What does the Femoral Nerve Traction Test indicate when positive?

• A. Patellar tendinitis
• B. Femoral nerve entrapment or L2/3/4 nerve root radiculopathy
• C. Inguinal hernia
• D. Hip flexor strain

Answer: (B)

A positive result on the Femoral Nerve Traction Test indicates femoral nerve entrapment or L2/3/4 nerve root radiculopathy. This test is designed to assess the function of the femoral nerve, which is responsible for the movement and sensation in the front of the thigh and is derived from the lumbar plexus, specifically the L2, L3, and L4 nerve roots.

When the test is positive, typically resulting in pain or symptoms in the lower extremity upon tractioning the nerve, it suggests that there may be compression or irritation of the nerve as it exits the spinal canal or passes through nearby structures. This can occur due to various reasons, including herniated discs, bony impingement, or other forms of nerve entrapment. Recognizing this condition early is crucial for guiding appropriate interventions and management strategies.

Other options do not directly relate to the specific neural pathway assessed by this test, meaning they do not represent the correct implications of a positive Femoral Nerve Traction Test result. For instance, patellar tendinitis primarily involves an injury to the tendon and would not typically elicit symptoms from nerve traction. An inguinal hernia relates to a protrusion in the