What action should be taken during the active straight leg raise (SLR) test if pain occurs?

During the active straight leg raise (SLR) test, if pain occurs, having the patient flex their knee is the appropriate action to take. This modification reduces the strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the hip and lower back that may be generating discomfort. By flexing the knee, the load on the involved structures is decreased, potentially alleviating pain and allowing for a better assessment of the patient’s condition.

The SLR test is designed to evaluate the integrity of the lower extremity and the lumbar spine; therefore, any indication of pain should lead to a careful adjustment of the movement. Flexing the knee can help isolate specific issues that may be contributing to the discomfort, thus aiding in a more accurate diagnosis without exacerbating the patient’s pain.

Additionally, other actions listed, like knee extension, standing on one leg, or performing passive shoulder flexion, do not directly address the pain during the SLR test and could further stress the areas involved. It’s crucial that any adjustments during the test prioritize both the comfort of the patient and the accuracy of the evaluation.