What is the indication for the Tauryn Test?

• A. Checking for ankle instability
• B. Sciatic nerve/root traction/irritation
• C. Assessing knee range of motion
• D. Determining hip flexor tightness

Answer: (B)

The Tauryn Test is specifically designed to assess for sciatic nerve or root traction or irritation. This test effectively evaluates the presence of nerve involvement by reproducing symptoms often associated with nerve tension or irritation in the sciatic distribution, such as pain, tingling, or weakness down the leg.

In performing the test, the clinician will usually check for provocation of symptoms while taking the patient through specific motions that stress the sciatic nerve pathway. A positive result from the test typically indicates that there may be an issue with nerve root irritation, which is critical for diagnosing conditions such as herniated discs or sciatica.

The other options focus on different assessments unrelated to nerve irritation. For example, checking for ankle instability would involve tests specific to the ankle ligaments and joint stability rather than nerve involvement. Assessing knee range of motion directly measures the knee's mobility and does not include considerations for nerve irritation. Determining hip flexor tightness is focused on the musculature around the hip joint, which also does not relate to the assessment of nerve traction or irritation.