Kendall Test

What is the "Kendall Test" used for?

• Called Rectus Femoris Contracture Test
• Assess shortening or contracture of the rectus femoris muscle

How to perform the "Kendall Test"?

• The patient lies supine on the examining table with the knees hanging over the edge. This position allows the knee to move freely into flexion or extension during the test.
• Ask the patient to flex one knee toward the chest and hold it firmly.
• Observe the opposite leg, which becomes the test limb.
• Evaluate the angle of the test knee:
  • A normal response is for the test knee to remain at 90° of flexion when the opposite hip is fully flexed.
  • If the knee begins to extend slightly, this suggests a rectus femoris contracture.
• The examiner may passively flex the test knee to confirm whether it naturally returns to 90°.
• Always palpate the rectus femoris during the maneuver to detect true muscle tightness.

What is the positive result?

• The Kendall Test is positive when the tested knee extends instead of holding at 90° suggesting tightness or contracture of the rectus femoris.