Patellofemoral Grind Test

Published July 2, 2026 Read time 1 min read Readers 1
Patellofemoral Grind Test

What is the "Patellofemoral Grind Test" used for?

  • To test for the presence of patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (chondromalacia patellae)

How to perform the "Patellofemoral Grind Test"?

  • Patient is supine with their knees extended
  • Examiner compresses the patella posteriorly onto the femoral condyles and then, moderately move the patella distally
  • Examiner instructs patient to contract the quadriceps muscles ( to pull patella proximally)

What is the positive result?

  • POSITIVE TEST: Pain, crepitus, apprehension of the patient as the irritated surfaces of the patella rub over the femur.

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