Special Tests for Orthopedic Examination, 4th Edition: A Comprehensive Guide

By Jeff G. Konin PhD, ATC, PT, Denise Lebsack PhD, ATC, Alison Snyder Valier PhD, AT, Jerome A. Isear Jr. MS, PT, ATC-L

First published over 20 years ago, Special Tests for Orthopedic Examination continues to provide a practical, pocket-sized manual for learning and applying orthopedic examination techniques. The 4th edition offers a comprehensive guide to the most current and practical special tests used in orthopedic examinations, including six new tests.

Key Features of the 4th Edition

The efficient, user-friendly, spiral-bound format allows for easy access to individualized special tests. This edition includes:

• 160 special tests, including six new tests: Ballottement Test, Gerbers Test (Lift-Off Test), Painful Arc Sign, Thessaly Test, Quad Active Test, and Lelli Test for Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries.
• A new section on evidence, highlighting systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or single articles to address reliability, sensitivity, and specificity of the special tests, where available.
• A video website providing visually enhanced dimensional and motion analysis of each special test performed, helping students and clinicians better understand the test motion and perform the test accurately during an orthopedic examination.
• New color images for each test, providing clear visual aids for better understanding and application of the tests.
• Updated references for all tests, ensuring that the information provided is current and accurate.

Benefits for Students and Clinicians

Special Tests for Orthopedic Examination, 4th Edition, offers a valuable resource for students, clinicians, and rehabilitation professionals. The simple yet succinct information provided throughout the manual and on the video website will help users make informed decisions during an orthopedic examination, from understanding to performing and evaluating the special tests.

This comprehensive guide will continue the tradition of past editions as the premier resource for thousands of students, clinicians, and rehabilitation professionals, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their field.