How is Bonnet's Test performed?

How is Bonnet's Test performed?

• A. Patient standing, knee flexed to 90 degrees
• B. Patient supine, knee extended, SLR to point of pain
• C. Patient seated with legs dangling
• D. Patient lying on the side with legs straight

Answer: (B)

Bonnet's Test is performed with the patient in a supine position, with the knee fully extended. The clinician then lifts the leg straight up (straight leg raise, or SLR) until either pain is reproduced or the maximal range of motion is achieved. This test is used primarily to identify irritation of the sciatic nerve or to assess for herniated discs, particularly in the lower back. In this position, the clinician can closely observe how the nerve behaves as tension is applied while stretching the lower limb. The straight leg raise test specifically places stress on the lumbosacral nerve roots, which can pinpoint the presence of radicular symptoms. The reproduction of pain during this maneuver indicates potential nerve involvement, making this test an essential component of a physical assessment related to lower extremity issues. Understanding the patient’s position is critical in order to isolate and examine the sciatic nerve effectively, which is why this method is standard practice for Bonnet's Test.

Bonnet's Test is performed with the patient in a supine position, with the knee fully extended. The clinician then lifts the leg straight up (straight leg raise, or SLR) until either pain is reproduced or the maximal range of motion is achieved. This test is used primarily to identify irritation of the sciatic nerve or to assess for herniated discs, particularly in the lower back.

In this position, the clinician can closely observe how the nerve behaves as tension is applied while stretching the lower limb. The straight leg raise test specifically places stress on the lumbosacral nerve roots, which can pinpoint the presence of radicular symptoms. The reproduction of pain during this maneuver indicates potential nerve involvement, making this test an essential component of a physical assessment related to lower extremity issues.

Understanding the patient’s position is critical in order to isolate and examine the sciatic nerve effectively, which is why this method is standard practice for Bonnet's Test.