What is the end feel for knee extension testing?

• A. HARD end feel
• B. SOFT end feel
• C. FIRM end feel
• D. FIRM end feel with slight give

Answer: (C)

End feel describes the sensation felt at the end of passive range of motion. When you extend the knee and the joint approaches its limit with the leg relaxed, the resistance comes from the posterior joint structures being stretched—the posterior capsule and the surrounding ligaments, along with the soft tissues behind the knee. This produces a firm, leathery resistance rather than a hard bony stop or a soft tissue compression. A hard end feel would indicate bone-on-bone contact (as in advanced joint degeneration or fracture), while a soft end feel suggests swelling or tissue approximation. A firm end feel is the normal finding for knee extension, reflecting capsuloligamentous tension as full extension is approached.