Which is the correct method to perform Bechterew's Test?

Which is the correct method to perform Bechterew's Test?

• A. Patient lies supine and raises legs alternately
• B. Patient sits with knees hanging off the table and extends legs
• C. Patient stands and bends forward at the waist
• D. Patient lies face down and lifts limbs

Answer: (B)

Bechterew's Test is specifically designed to assess for the presence of lumbar disc herniation or other lumbar spine pathology. The correct method to perform this test involves the patient sitting with their knees hanging off the table and extending their legs. When the patient extends their legs, it places strain on the lumbar spine and helps to identify any pain or discomfort in the lower back or down the legs, which could indicate an underlying issue such as nerve root compression. The seated position also allows for the clinician to observe the patient's response and any associated symptoms more effectively. Other methods mentioned do not align with the purpose of Bechterew's Test. For instance, lying supine and raising legs alternately may assess flexibility or abdominal strength rather than specific spinal issues. Bending forward at the waist primarily tests overall flexibility and can engage different muscle groups, while lying face down and lifting limbs generally targets different areas and does not provide the specific information needed for diagnosing lumbar pathology. Thus, the position and movement involved in option B are crucial for accurately conducting Bechterew's Test.

Bechterew's Test is specifically designed to assess for the presence of lumbar disc herniation or other lumbar spine pathology. The correct method to perform this test involves the patient sitting with their knees hanging off the table and extending their legs.

When the patient extends their legs, it places strain on the lumbar spine and helps to identify any pain or discomfort in the lower back or down the legs, which could indicate an underlying issue such as nerve root compression. The seated position also allows for the clinician to observe the patient's response and any associated symptoms more effectively.

Other methods mentioned do not align with the purpose of Bechterew's Test. For instance, lying supine and raising legs alternately may assess flexibility or abdominal strength rather than specific spinal issues. Bending forward at the waist primarily tests overall flexibility and can engage different muscle groups, while lying face down and lifting limbs generally targets different areas and does not provide the specific information needed for diagnosing lumbar pathology. Thus, the position and movement involved in option B are crucial for accurately conducting Bechterew's Test.