Directional preference at the knee: a case report using mechanical diagnosis and therapy

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Knee pain is prevalent in athletes and the general population.
• Orthopedic tests like McMurry's test are used for diagnosing meniscal injuries.
• The validity and inter-rater reliability of such tests have been questioned in prior research.

Observation:

• A female athlete with suspected meniscal injury presented with a positive McMurry's test.
• The patient underwent examination using the McKenzie system of mechanical diagnosis and therapy.
• Self-administered extension exercises, with and without over-pressure, were applied.

Findings:

• Following repeated movements and exercises, the McMurry's test result became negative.
• The patient successfully returned to full sporting activities.
• This suggests a potential limitation in the diagnostic utility of single orthopedic tests.

Implications:

• The study cautions against over-reliance on single orthopedic tests for knee conditions.
• The ability to negate a positive test through specific therapeutic movements raises questions about its validity.
• Repeated movements and mechanical therapy may offer an alternative diagnostic and therapeutic approach for knee pain.