Diagnostic Accuracy of the Passive Straight Leg Raise Test in Detecting Compression of the Lower Lumbar Nerve Roots

Authors

Hisham Mohamed Hussein, Cairo UniversityFollow
Ehab Kamel, University of Ha’ilFollow
Mohamed Ragab, Cairo UniversityFollow
Ahmed Elerian, Cairo UniversityFollow

Abstract

Background: Lumbar nerve root compression is a pathological condition that occurs commonly in the low back pain population. Passive straight leg raise (SLR) is a clinical test widely used to confirm this pathological condition. Yet, its diagnostic accuracy needs further investigation. Objective: To assess the sensitivity and specificity of the passive SLR test in detecting compression of the lower lumbar nerve roots using magnetic resonance imaging as a reference standard. Design: This study is a prospective diagnostic-accuracy study. Methods: One hundred-and-twelve participants (82 males and 30 females) met the inclusion criteria and joined the study. Participants were recruited through direct communication and poster announcement and allocated into positive and negative MRI groups. A standardized passive SLR test was applied to all participants; then 2 X 2 cross-tabulation statistics were conducted to determine the sensitivity and specificity. Results: The passive SLR test was considered positive in 62 (56.36%) participants while it was negative in 50 (45.45%) participants. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios were found to be 77.1%., 81.0%, 6.75, and 0.47 respectively. The diagnostic accuracy was found to be 80.95%. ROC curve revealed positive fair sensitivity and specificity of the test with the area under the curve equal to 0.775. Conclusion: The passive SLR test is a useful tool for the diagnosis of lower lumbar nerve root compression.

Author Bio(s)

1- Hisham M. Hussein, PT, MSc, Ph.D., is an Assistant professor of physical therapy in the faculty of physical therapy, at Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. He is also an assistant professor at the College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Hail. Saudi Arabia.

2- Ehab M. Kamel, PT, MSc, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of physical therapy at the Department of Public Health, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, University of Ha’il, Ha’il, Saudi Arabia. he is also a member of the Department of Physical Therapy, El Helal Hospital, Cairo, Egypt

3- Mohamed M. Ragab, PT, MSc, Ph.D., is a lecturer of physical therapy in the faculty of physical therapy, at Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. He is also the director of the rehabilitation center in AlQasim, Saudi Arabia.

4- Ahmed I. Elerian, PT, MSc, Ph.D., is a professor of physical therapy in the faculty of physical therapy, at Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. He is also a professor of Physical Therapy in Department of Basic Science for Physical Therapy, Al Salam University, Tanta, Egypt.

Acknowledgements

none

Recommended Citation

Hussein HM, Kamel E, Ragab M, Elerian A. Diagnostic Accuracy of the Passive Straight Leg Raise Test in Detecting Compression of the Lower Lumbar Nerve Roots. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2024 Mar 22;22(2), Article 8.