A Positive Quadriceps Active Test, without the Quadriceps Being Active

Figure 2

Clinical photographs with the gastrocnemius relaxed (a) and contracted (b). Note that the photograph is taken in the seated position to better illustrate the position of the foot. In (a), the ankle is dorsiflexed to illustrate calf relaxation, whereas in (b), the ankle is plantarflexed to illustrate gastrocnemius contraction. Patient with a positive “quads active test” who does not activate his quads to reduce his tibiofemoral articulation. Note that in (a), his gastrocnemius is relaxed (hence his dorsiflexed ankle) and his tibia is posteriorly subluxed, but in (b), his gastrocnemius is contracted and the tibiofemoral articulation is reduced. These findings were consistent when lying supine or sitting erect (as above).

(a)

(b)