Hoffa Sign

Published July 2, 2026 Read time 1 min read Readers 4
Hoffa Sign

What is the "Hoffa Sign" used for?

  • Hoffa Sign indicates a chronic Achilles tendon tear.

How to perform the "Hoffa Sign"?

  • The patient is prone with the feet projecting over the edge of the examining table.
  • The examiner passively dorsi flexes both feet.

What is the positive result?

  • In a chronic Achilles tendon tear, tension in the Achilles tendon will be reduced and the affected foot can be dorsi flexed farther than the contralateral foot. 
  • The patient is then requested to stand on tiptoe on each leg. 
  • This will be impossible with an Achilles tendon tear in the injured leg.

References

  1. Clinical Tests for the Musculoskeletal System 3rd Edition. 
  2. Dutton’s Orthopaedic Examination, Evaluation, And Intervention 3rd Edition.