Patellar Grind Test
Other Names
- Clarke's Test
- Clarks Test
- Clarke Sign
- Patella compression test
- Osmond-Clarke test
- Patella Grind Test
- Patella Grind Test
- Patellofemoral Grind Test
- Patellar Compression Test
- Patellofemoral Compression Test
Purpose
- Evaluate the Patellofemoral Joint as a cause of knee pain
Description
- The patient is supine with leg extended in a neutral position
- The examiner places the superior pole of the patella in the webspace between their 1st and 2nd digits while applying caudal pressure
- The patient is instructed to gently and gradually contract the quadriceps muscle.
- Positive Test:
- Patellofemoral Joint Pain
- Patient often unable to complete test
Modified Version
- Patient is asked to raise their extended leg off the bed
Pathology
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
- Chondromalacia Patellae
- Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis
- Patellar Instability
Evidence
- Nijs et al[3]
- Sensitivity: 48%
- Specificity: 75%
- LR+: 1.9
- LR-: 0.7
- PPV: 68
- NPV: 57
See Also
References
- ↑ van Linschoten, Robbart. "Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and Exercise Therapy." (2012).
- ↑ Pillemer, Roger. "A Systematic Examination of the Knee." Handbook of Lumbar Spine and Lower Extremity Examination: A Practical Guide. Cham: Springer International Publishing, 2023. 125-138.
- ↑ Nijs, J., Van Geel, C., Van der Auwera, C., & Van de Velde, B. (2006). Diagnostic value of five clinical tests in patellofemoral pain syndrome. Manual Therapy, 11(1), 69e77.
Created by:
John Kiel on 10 April 2022 10:30:49
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Last edited:
5 April 2026 17:36:13
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