What is the main indication for performing a double leg raise?

• A. Femoral nerve irritation
• B. Knee joint pathology
• C. LS sprain/involvement
• D. Quadriceps strain

Answer: (C)

Performing a double leg raise is primarily indicated to assess for lumbar spine involvement or strain. This test evaluates the patient's ability to raise both legs while lying supine, which can put stress on the lumbar spine and reveal any weakness, discomfort, or restricted motion associated with a lumbar sprain or other lower back conditions. Such an assessment is crucial in understanding the functionality of the lumbar region, particularly when assessing for sprains or other lumbar-related issues.

The other options, while they may indicate specific lower extremity or nerve issues, do not directly relate to the primary focus of the double leg raise test. For instance, femoral nerve irritation might present differently in diagnostic testing; knee joint pathology would more likely be assessed through direct knee manipulation and examination; and a quadriceps strain would be evaluated using movements directly targeting the quadriceps muscle rather than through a lumbar-centric test such as the double leg raise.