What symptom is commonly tested with the Bechterew's Test?

• A. Numbness in the feet
• B. Pain along the sciatic pathway
• C. Loss of muscle strength
• D. Joint swelling

Answer: (B)

The Bechterew's Test is specifically designed to assess for symptoms related to sciatic nerve involvement, particularly pain that follows the pathway of the sciatic nerve. When the test is performed, the patient is typically asked to extend one leg while seated. A positive test result occurs if the patient experiences pain in the lower back or radiating down the leg, which indicates that there may be an issue with the lumbar spine or the nerve roots involved.

This test is particularly relevant for assessing conditions such as disc herniation, sciatica, or other forms of nerve compression. The symptom of pain along the sciatic pathway is what the test seeks to identify, as it can help clinicians determine the source of the patient's discomfort and inform further diagnostic steps or treatment options.