Prone Instability Test

Purpose

Screen for Prone Instability findings.

Execution

1. 1Lie prone with the trunk on a table and feet on the floor
2. 2Apply posterior-to-anterior pressure to the lumbar spine
3. 3Have the client lift the legs off the floor
4. 4Reapply pressure to the lumbar spine
5. 5Compare symptoms between positions

Key Observations

• Pain that improves with extensor activation
• Suggests segmental instability

Views

• posterior

Protocol

1. 1Observe from: posterior.
2. 2Standardize start position and instructions.
3. 3Perform 2-3 trials per side when applicable.
4. 4Record key observations and any positive indicators.
5. 5Compare left vs right when applicable.

Reference

David J. Magee