What does the Fortin Finger Test require the patient to do?

• A. Extend the knee
• B. Point to the area of pain
• C. Walk back and forth
• D. Jump lightly on one leg

Answer: (B)

The Fortin Finger Test is designed to assess for hip joint pathology, particularly in cases of hip impingement or labral tears. In this test, the patient is instructed to point to the specific area where they feel pain. This action is vital as it provides the examiner with insight into the precise location of the discomfort, which is important for diagnosing conditions related to the hip.

By having the patient point directly to the area of pain, the examiner can differentiate between pain that originates from the hip versus other structures in the vicinity, such as the lumbar spine or knee. This focused approach can help narrow down the underlying issues contributing to the patient's symptoms. Additionally, the effectiveness of the Fortin Finger Test hinges on the patient's ability to accurately localize their pain, which aids the clinician in making an informed assessment.