Special Tests & Examination

Evidence-informed clinical examination library

A focused reference for learning, reviewing, and comparing orthopedic and medical special tests by anatomical region, clinical purpose, and interpretation.

Browse latest tests Explore regions

286: Published tests
9: Body regions
4: Clinical details per test

Built for quick review Indications, performance steps, findings, and evidence cues in one place.

What this site helps with

Clinical details without the clutter

Each entry is organized to help students and clinicians move from question to examination: when to use a test, how to perform it, what a positive finding means, and where evidence supports interpretation.

Purpose

Understand what structure, condition, or movement pattern the test is intended to assess.

Procedure

Follow concise positioning and performance steps for consistent clinical practice.

Interpretation

Review positive findings, clinical meaning, and practical cautions for each test.

Evidence

Compare sensitivity, specificity, and article-based notes when they are available.

Recently added

Latest Special Tests

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Neurological Examination

Bulbocavernosus Reflex

Used For Integrity of the sacral spinal cord segments S2–S4 How to Perform Position the patient appropriately (usually supine). Ensure…

Neurological Examination

Brudzinski–Kernig Test

Used For Meningeal irritation, which may occur in conditions such as meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or meningeal carcinomatosis. How to Perform…

Neurological Examination

Brudzinski Sign

Used For Meningeal irritation, which may occur in conditions such as meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or meningeal carcinomatosis. How to Perform…

Neurological Examination

Babinski Test

Used For Integrity of the corticospinal tract How to Perform The examiner uses a pointed object (such as the handle…

Neurological Examination

Finger Thumb Test

Used For How to Perform Result

Neurological Examination

Finger Drumming Test

Used For How to Perform Result

Neurological Examination

Chvostek Sign

Used For Hypocalcemia Seventh cranial (facial) nerve pathology. How to Perform Have the patient sit comfortably, facing the examiner. Locate…

Neurological Examination

Dizziness Test

Used For Identify whether dizziness is caused by issues in vertebral arteries or semicircular canals of the inner ear. How…

How to study

Move from region to reasoning

Start with an anatomical region, scan the available tests, then open a test page for indications, performance details, and interpretation. The structure is designed for quick review before labs, placements, and clinical discussions.

Choose a regionShoulder, spine, hip, knee, ankle, pediatric assessment, and more.
Compare test optionsUse titles, summaries, and categories to find the most relevant examination.
Review the detailsRead the procedure, positive sign, clinical meaning, and evidence notes.

Anatomical library