Knee
Patellofemoral
Evidence: suggestive
McConnell Test Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Diagnosing Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS).
How to Perform
- Step 1: Patient performs isometric quad contractions at varying angles (0, 30, 60, 90, 120°). Note pain.
- Step 2: If pain occurs, examiner pushes the patella medially (glide) and repeats the contraction.
Interpretation of Results
- Positive Test: Pain is significantly reduced when the medial glide is applied.
Clinical Context & Limitations
The McConnell Test should be considered as one component of a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. No single special test has perfect diagnostic accuracy; thus, clinical decision-making should integrate test results with patient-reported symptoms, mechanism of injury, functional impairment, and relevant imaging.
Clinicians should be aware of potential false-positive results in patients with pain sensitisation, muscle guarding, or poor relaxation. For the Knee region, combining the McConnell Test with complementary examination tests significantly improves overall diagnostic confidence.
References
- Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.
