Final answer:
The Kleiger's test, also known as the external rotation stress test, is used to diagnose injuries to the syndesmotic and deltoid ligaments of the ankle. It involves laterally rotating the foot while the knee is bent to elicit pain or discomfort that indicates ligament damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Kleiger's test (also known as the external rotation stress test) is used to identify injuries to the syndesmotic ligaments, which connect the two bones (tibia and fibula) of the lower leg, as well as injuries to the deltoid ligament on the medial side of the ankle. The test involves a lateral (external) rotation movement of the foot when the knee is flexed at 90 degrees, which can reveal discomfort or pain associated with syndesmotic ligament disruption or a deltoid ligament injury. The importance of the Kleiger's test lies in its ability to help healthcare professionals diagnose ankle injuries, particularly those that may not be immediately apparent on initial evaluation.
Patient Positioning: The patient is usually in a seated or lying position with the knee flexed to 90 degrees.
Execution of the Test:
The examiner holds the lower leg of the patient and externally rotates the foot (turns the foot outward).
While maintaining the external rotation, the examiner applies an external force to the lateral aspect of the ankle.
Interpretation of Results:
Pain or discomfort experienced by the patient during this maneuver may indicate injury to the syndesmotic ligaments.
Pain at the anterior (front) aspect of the ankle may suggest damage to the anterior syndesmotic ligaments, while pain at the posterior (back) aspect may indicate injury to the posterior syndesmotic ligaments.
Considerations:
It's important for the examiner to be gentle and cautious when performing this test, as excessive force can lead to discomfort or injury.
The Kleiger's test is often used in conjunction with other clinical assessments and imaging studies to obtain a comprehensive understanding of ankle injuries.
It's crucial to note that the interpretation of test results should be done by a qualified healthcare professional, and this test is just one component of a thorough clinical examination. Any suspected ankle injuries or concerns should be evaluated and diagnosed by a healthcare provider.