Which of the following is a characteristic action of the Mennell Test?

• A. Applying pressure inward at PSISs
• B. Applying pressure outward at PSISs
• C. Palpating the knee joint
• D. Testing range of motion in the ankle

Answer: (B)

The Mennell Test is specifically designed to assess for sacroiliac joint dysfunction or irritation. A key aspect of this test involves applying pressure outward at the posterior superior iliac spines (PSISs). This outward pressure creates a torsional stress on the sacroiliac joints, helping to elicit pain or symptoms that indicate dysfunction in this area.

Applying pressure inward at the PSISs would not effectively evaluate sacroiliac joint issues, as the test is oriented towards assessing the reaction to outward pressure. Similarly, palpating the knee joint or testing range of motion in the ankle does not pertain to the purpose of the Mennell Test, as it is specifically focused on the sacroiliac region. Therefore, outward pressure at the PSISs is the characteristic action of the Mennell Test, making it the correct answer.