Patellar Apprehension Test: How to Check for Dislocation

The Patellar Apprehension Test, also known as Fairbank's Test, is a clinical maneuver used to evaluate the stability of the kneecap. It is primarily used to check if a patient is prone to lateral patellar dislocations.

1. Purpose

The primary purpose of the Patellar Apprehension Test (also known as Fairbank's Apprehension Test) is to **test for** patellar instability. It specifically checks for a history of or tendency towards lateral patellar dislocation or subluxation.

2. How to Perform

1. The patient is positioned in supine (lying on their back) with the knee relaxed and flexed to approximately 30 degrees.
2. The examiner places their thumbs on the medial (inner) border of the patella.
3. The examiner gently and slowly pushes the patella laterally (outward).
4. The examiner observes the patient's face and quadriceps muscles for a reaction.

3. Positive & Negative Sign

Positive Sign (Test is POSITIVE):
A positive test (indicating instability) is:

• The patient expresses "apprehension" or fear that the kneecap is going to dislocate.
• The patient may reflexively contract their quadriceps muscles to pull the patella back or reach for the examiner's hand to stop the movement.
• Note: Pain alone is not a positive sign; there must be apprehension.

Negative Sign (Test is NEGATIVE):
A negative test is when the patella moves laterally without causing fear or muscle guarding.