Knee physical examination skills are technically challenging, particularly for providers who do not perform them regularly. This 2 minute structured physical examination of the knee includes common maneuvers performed when evaluating knee pain. However, not all patients require all components of this exam, especially those with known osteoarthritis (OA). The key components to the knee physical exam include observation, assessing for an effusion, and palpation. The additional stability tests and provocative maneuvers may be helpful in specific patient populations.
This Knee Physical Examination accompanies a checklist that identifies key elements of each maneuver.