Which test is performed with the patient in a non-weight bearing position, about 20 degrees of plantar flexion, to assess ATF laxity by translating the posterior aspect of the heel?

• A. Talar tilt test
• B. Morton’s test
• C. Ankle anterior drawer test
• D. Tinels sign

Answer: (C)

Evaluating ATFL laxity hinges on how far the hindfoot can move forward under the tibia when the ankle is placed in plantar flexion. With the patient in a non-weight bearing position and about 20 degrees of plantar flexion, the ATFL is placed on stretch, so any laxity lets the calcaneus/talus translate anteriorly relative to the tibia. By stabilizing the leg and translating the posterior aspect of the heel forward, you elicit this anterior movement. A finding of excessive anterior translation (often with reproduction of symptoms) indicates ATFL laxity. This particular setup isolates the ATFL more effectively than other maneuvers, which stress different ligaments or focus on nerve symptoms rather than ligament laxity.