Clarke's test

Clarke's Test is a clinical examination procedure used primarily to assess for patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), a condition characterized by knee pain resulting from the deterioration, misalignment, or dysfunction of the patellofemoral joint. The test is named after the British orthopedic surgeon, Sir Frank Wild Clarke, who first described it. This diagnostic method is non-invasive and is commonly employed in orthopedic and sports medicine settings to evaluate the integrity of the patellofemoral joint and surrounding structures.

Procedure

Clarke's Test is performed with the patient lying flat on their back with the knee in question extended. The examiner places their hand over the patella (kneecap) applying slight anterior pressure. The patient is then asked to contract the quadriceps muscle, the large muscle group on the front of the thigh, while the examiner's pressure on the patella is maintained. The test is considered positive if the patient experiences pain in the patellofemoral region or is unable to complete the quadriceps contraction due to discomfort. A positive Clarke's Test suggests potential patellofemoral pain syndrome or related patellar issues.

Indications

Clarke's Test is indicated for patients presenting with anterior knee pain, especially when the clinical suspicion for patellofemoral pain syndrome is high. It is also useful in assessing the condition of the patellar cartilage and the patellofemoral alignment.

Limitations

While Clarke's Test is valuable in the assessment of PFPS, it has its limitations. The test's specificity and sensitivity vary, and it can produce false positive results in individuals without patellofemoral pathology. Pain elicited during the test can also originate from other knee structures, making it essential to perform a comprehensive knee examination and consider other diagnostic tests.

Related Conditions

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
• Chondromalacia Patellae
• Patellar Tendinitis
• Knee Osteoarthritis

See Also

• Knee Examination
• McMurray Test
• Lachman Test