Influence of Sequence of Joint Movement on Hamstring Length Test Results

Background: Hamstring length assessment has an important value in Physiotherapy assessment and better outcome of patients. Purpose of the study was 1) To compare Active SLR and Active knee extension test values as per Kendall’s muscle-range assessment, 2) To compare Passive SLR and Passive knee extension test values as per Kendall’s muscle range assessment.Methods: Total 100 healthy individuals (age 20.83±1.17, 14 males, 86 females) participated in study. Goniometric assessment of hip flexion-extension and knee flexion was assessed followed by active and passive straight leg raising (ASLR and PSLR) and knee extension tests (AKE and PKE). Kendall’s formula was used to find hamstring muscle-range. ASLR and AKE results were compared for means and correlation was assessed. PSLR and PKE results were compared for means and correlation was assessed.Result: The average hamstring-range is about 79.34% (ASLR), 83.67% (PSLR), 77.92% (AKE), and 81.43% (PKE) of total joint range of hamstrings. There is significant difference between ASLR and AKE values and between PSLR and PKE values.Conclusion: Total hamstring excursion in all methods confirms Kendall’s statement. However difference between SLR and knee extension tests suggest that SLR values of hamstrings length and knee extension values of hamstrings length cannot be used interchangeably. Other mechanical factors may play role for the difference between these values. Implications: Sequence of Hip flexion and Knee extension for hamstring length assessment has a significant effect on results and it should be considered by therapist before clinical decision making.