Posterior Sag Sign – Gravity Drawer Test

Orthopedic Exam / Special Tests for Physical Therapy: KNEE

Gravity Drawer Test / Posterior Sign/ Posterior Drawer Test/ Posterior Sag Sign:

 PURPOSE:

• To assess the integrity of the posterior cruciate ligament

Video Demo Instructions, Procedure, Positive Test:

Posterior Sign – Gravity Drawer Test Video Demo (Procedure below)

Posterior Sign – Gravity Drawer Test: PROCEDURE:

• Patient is supine, their hips flexed to 45 degrees and their knees flexed to 90 degrees and their feet are flat on the table
• Observe the profile of both knees from the side of the table

Posterior Sign – Gravity Drawer Test: POSITIVE SIGN:

• The affected tibia sags posteriorly compared to the unaffected knee. (In given position, the tibia drops posteriorly on the femur if the posterior cruciate ligament’s integrity is compromised)