Test: Thompson's Test

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Background/Purpose

Thompson's Test assesses whether there is a muscle rupture present in the Achilles tendon.

Procedure

Subject lies prone with feet hanging over the edge of the table. Clinician flexes the knee to 90 degrees and squeezes the calf muscle at its widest point. A normal response should cause contraction of the Achilles tendon, resulting in a plantar flexion motion of the foot. If the foot does not respond, the test indicates a complete rupture of the Achilles tendon.
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

If the foot does not respond, the test indicates a complete rupture of the Achilles tendon.

Criteria

• Contraction of the Achilles tendon, resulting in a plantar flexion motion of the foot.

Measurement

0.00

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail