Milgram Test

What is the "Milgram Test" used for?

• Assess for lumbar spine pathology, particularly space-occupying lesions such as herniated discs, intrathecal pressure increases, or other causes of nerve root compression.

How to perform the "Milgram Test"?

• The patient lies supine on the examination table. 
• The patient is instructed to raise both legs simultaneously approximately 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) off the table. 
• The legs should be kept straight (knees extended). 
• The patient attempts to hold this position for 30 seconds.

What is the positive result?

The test is considered positive if: 

• The patient is unable to maintain the leg position for 30 seconds, or 
• The maneuver reproduces pain, tingling, or other symptoms in one or both lower limbs.

A positive result may indicate pressure on nerve roots due to intervertebral disc protrusion or space-occupying lesions within the spinal canal that compromise the cauda equina or lumbosacral nerve roots.