The foramina are formed by the pedicle superiorly and inferiorly, ligamentum flavum posteriorly, disc and vertebral body anteriorly, and this small space normally allows the nerve root excursion of 4 mm, however during the straight leg raise test, this root excursion can be compromised by several factors. Radicular symptoms are primarily produced by nerve root inflammation by surrounding structures. The straight leg raise test is basically a provocation test that evidences radicular irritation in the lumbosacral region by lower limb flexion and can be due to multiple causes. Therefore the objective is to describe the maneuver technique, pathophysiology, history, and usefulness of this common test through a review of the literature. It should still be considered a relevant component of the physical examination that, associated with proper imaging studies, can lead to an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

However, the clinical usefulness of this test remains important both for general practitioners and spine surgeons. The specificity of the straight leg raise test has been reported to be low, limiting the diagnosis accuracy. Consequently, early recognition of radiculopathy allows targeted treatment and diminishes disability. In this regard, the neurological examination is fundamental in discriminating patients with isolated lower back pain from those with associated radiculopathy. Sciatic pain is radiating pain from the buttocks to the legs and is frequently associated with low back pain. Low back pain is one of the most common complaints among active workers and a significant cause of absenteeism from work. Overall, this test is one of the most commonly performed maneuvers across clinical practice and provides important information when making the clinical decision to refer a patient to a specialist, as well as among spinal surgeons, to guide therapeutic decision-making. Nonetheless, there are multiple causes of a positive test, such as facet joint cysts or hypertrophy. Lasegue, can be positive in various conditions, making lumbar disc herniation the most common.

This test, which was first described by Dr. The straight leg raise test also called the Lasegue test, is a fundamental neurological maneuver during the physical examination of a patient with lower back pain that seeks to assess the sciatic compromise due to lumbosacral nerve root irritation.

Examination of sciatica