Clinical examination of the knee following trauma: an evidence-based perspective

The knee is a common site of injury. The increasing number of clinical tests and greater understanding of the joints biomechanics, lead to difficulties in both the interpretation of the clinical examination and in the reliance that should be placed on specific signs or tests. This article helps review the present evidence surrounding examination of the knee. This will enable clarification of which tests are most appropriate to be applied for specific injuries, and how they should be interpreted by the clinician. The most accurate test currently is that for anterior cruciate ligament deficiency as described by Lachman. Other classically taught tests, such as that of McMurray for meniscal tears, have been demonstrated to be of poor sensitivity and specificity.