Knee Extension Angle

Other Names

Measurement of knee extension angle

• Knee Extension Angle
• Popliteal Angle

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Purpose

• Evaluate the range of motion, tightness or contracture of the Hip Extensors

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Description

• The patient is supine, hip is flexed to 90°
• Extend knee until resistance is met
• Measure popliteal angle from tibia to femur
• Positive test
  • Limited extension of knee due to hamstring or hip extensor tightness, contracture
  • Popliteal angle & knee extension angle add up to 180°

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Pathology

• Tightness or contracture of the [Hip Anatomy|[Hip Extensors]]

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Evidence

• Unknown

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See Also

• Hip Pain (Main)
• Physical Exam Hip
• Hip Anatomy Main

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