• Alon Rabin, Peter C Gerszten, Pat Karausky, Clareann H Bunker, Douglas M Potter, and William C Welch.
• University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and School for Rehabilitative Sciences and Technology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
• Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2007 Jul 1; 88 (7): 840-3.

ObjectiveTo compare the sensitivity of 2 methods of performing the straight-leg raise (SLR) test, one in the supine position and the other in the seated position, in patients presenting with signs and symptoms consistent with lumbar radiculopathy.DesignA cohort study in which patients with signs and symptoms consistent with lumbar radiculopathy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results available for review at the time of participation were assessed with both the supine and the seated SLR test.SettingA large neurosurgical referral office.ParticipantsSeventy-one consecutive patients with signs and symptoms consistent with lumbar radiculopathy referred for evaluation of low back pain were prospectively recruited.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresSupine SLR and seated SLR. MRI was used as the criterion standard.ResultsThe sensitivity of the supine SLR test was .67 compared with a sensitivity of .41 of the seated SLR test (P=.003).ConclusionsThe traditional SLR test performed in a supine position is more sensitive in reproducing leg pain than the seated SLR test in patients presenting with signs of and symptoms consistent with lumbar radiculopathy and MRI evidence of nerve root compression.

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