The straight leg raise (SLR) test is a simple clinical test used by healthcare providers to assess the flexibility and strength of the muscles and tendons in the legs and lower back. It is typically used to diagnose lower back pain or to assess the severity of a back injury. During the test, the person being tested lies on their back with their legs straight. The healthcare provider will then lift one of the person’s legs up by the ankle, keeping the leg straight. The leg is raised until the person feels pain or until the leg is at a 45-degree angle. The test is then repeated on the other leg.
During this test, the healthcare provider will be looking for any pain or discomfort that is felt during the test, as well as any weakness or difficulty in raising the leg. They may also assess the range of motion in the leg and lower back and may compare the results of the test on each leg to see if there is any difference in flexibility or strength. The results of the test can help the healthcare provider diagnose the cause of the pain or determine the best course of treatment.