Gaenslen's Test is used to diagnose which condition?

• A. Disc herniation
• B. Pubic ring instability
• C. SI joint dysfunction
• D. SI joint provocation

Answer: (C)

Gaenslen's test targets the sacroiliac joints by placing one leg into maximal flexion toward the chest while the other leg remains extended off the table, creating a torsional and shear load across the SI joints. If the sacroiliac joint is the source of pain, this maneuver reproduces the patient’s typical symptoms, supporting a diagnosis of SI joint dysfunction. It helps distinguish SI joint problems from disc-related symptoms (which typically show up with tests like the straight-leg raise and involve radicular pain) and from pubic symphysis issues (which are identified with pelvic-specific maneuvers and palpation). In short, a positive Gaenslen’s test points to SI joint dysfunction as the pain source.