Matles Test

Published July 2, 2026 Read time 1 min read Readers 4
Matles Test

What is the "Matles Test" used for?

  • It’s used for Achilles Tendon Rupture

How to perform the "Matles Test"?

  • The patient lies in the prone position with the foot over the end of the table and the clinician stands at the end of the table.
  • The patient is asked to actively flex the knee to 90 degrees while the position of the foot is observed throughout the motion.

What is the positive result?

  • If the foot falls into neutral or slight dorsiflexion, the Matles Test test is positive for Achilles tendon rupture (in normal patients, the foot remains in plantar flexion).

Test Accuracy

  • Sensitivity: 88 %
  • Specificity: 85 %

References

  • Periasamy, Madhu & Venkatramani, Hari & Sabapathy, Raja. (2019). Management of Chronic Achilles Tendon Injuries—Review of Current Protocols and Surgical Options. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery. 52. 10.1055/s-0039-1687923. Link
  • Dutton’s Orthopaedic Examination, Evaluation, And Intervention 3rd Edition.