Straight leg raise

Straight Leg Raise

File:Straight Leg Raise.jpg

A demonstration of the Straight Leg Raise test

The Straight Leg Raise (SLR), also known as Lasègue's sign, is a test performed by health professionals to determine whether a patient with low back pain has an underlying herniated disk, often located at L5 (fifth lumbar spinal nerve).

Procedure

The Straight Leg Raise is performed with the patient lying down on their back on an examination table. The examiner lifts the patient's leg while the knee is straight, a positive sign being pain down the back of the leg.

Interpretation

Pain that occurs when lifting the leg generally gets worse between 30 and 70 degrees. If pain is felt below the knee at less than 45 degrees, it is considered a positive sign of a herniated disk.

Limitations

The Straight Leg Raise test is not always accurate, with some studies suggesting that it only correctly identifies a herniated disk in 50% of cases.

See Also

• Physical examination
• Herniated disk
• Lumbar spinal nerve 5