Which test is commonly used to assess meniscal pathology?

• A. Apley’s distraction test
• B. Thessaly test
• C. Bounce Home test
• D. McMurray’s test

Answer: (D)

Testing meniscal pathology relies on provocative maneuvers that stress the menisci by flexing the knee, rotating the tibia, and extending the joint to reproduce symptoms.

McMurray’s test does exactly that in a simple, reliable way. As the knee is flexed, the tibia is rotated to bias the medial or lateral meniscus, then the knee is gradually extended while maintaining the rotation. If a tear is present, the torn edge catches between the femur and tibia, producing a palpable or audible click and pain along the joint line. This classic mechanism makes it a highly effective and widely taught method for identifying meniscal tears, with clear clinical signs when positive.

Other tests have their uses but aren’t as specific or as routinely relied upon for diagnosing meniscal tears. Apley’s distraction test stresses ligaments more than the meniscus and is less definitive for a meniscal tear. The Bounce Home test can indicate a problem with extension that may be due to a meniscal issue but is not as sensitive or specific on its own. The Thessaly test is a useful dynamic, weight-bearing assessment and can detect meniscal pathology, but it requires patient balance and may be less practical in some settings.