Which maneuver is performed in the Homans test?

• A. Plantarflex the foot
• B. Dorsiflex the foot and squeeze the calf
• C. Inversion of the foot
• D. Knee flexion

Answer: (B)

Homans sign is a clinical maneuver used to screen for deep vein thrombosis in the leg. It is performed by dorsiflexing the foot at the ankle while squeezing (compressing) the calf. If this combination elicits pain in the calf, the sign is considered positive for DVT. The idea behind it is that stretching the deep venous system and compressing the calf can provoke pain when a thrombus is present in the deep veins. This specific movement pair is the classic description of the maneuver. However, remember that it has limited sensitivity and specificity and should not be used alone to diagnose DVT; imaging such as duplex ultrasound and overall clinical probability are essential.