What indicates a positive Ely Sign?

• A. Decrease in pain
• B. Pelvic haunching
• C. Heel to buttock movement
• D. Increased range of motion

Answer: (B)

A positive Ely Sign is indicated by pelvic haunching, which occurs during a specific physical examination maneuver where the examiner flexes the patient's knee towards the buttock while observing for pelvic movement. If the patient demonstrates pelvic lifting or rocking in response to this maneuver, it suggests tightness or a contracture in the rectus femoris muscle, part of the quadriceps group.

This response from the pelvis is an important clinical indicator as it helps in the assessment of hip flexor tightness or potential issues with the knee's range of motion. The manipulation essentially tests the elasticity and flexibility of the muscle, and pelvic motion indicates that the muscle is functioning abnormally, rather than indicating improvement or normal movement patterns.

In contrast, a decrease in pain, heel to buttock movement, or increased range of motion would not be specifically associated with the Ely Sign and do not effectively gauge the condition being assessed. These other options may relate to different assessments or states of muscle function but do not capture the specific physical response that defines a positive Ely Sign.