In this article, we will discuss about the Bowstring Test. So, let’s get started.
Bowstring Test
This provocative test is used to evaluate lumbar nerve root compression (lumbar disc herniation or sciatic nerve irritation)
(1) Patient at supine lying position
(2) Firstly perform SLR, at the point of maximum pain (positive SLR) the examiner will slightly flex the patient’s knee thereby reducing the pain
(3) Now apply pressure (via thumb) on the hamstring muscle if no pain is elicited then apply pressure on the popliteal fossa (sciatic nerve)
(4) If pain is reproduced it indicates a positive sign.