If the patient has low back pain that radiates down the thigh and leg, commonly called sciatica if in the sciatic nerve distribution, test straight-leg raising on each side in turn. Place the patient in the supine position. Raise the patient's relaxed and straightened leg, flexing the thigh at the hip (Fig. 1). Some examiners first raise the patient's leg with the knee flexed, then extend the leg.

FIGURE 1. Test the straight-leg raise.

Assess the degree of elevation at which pain occurs, the quality and distribution of the pain, and the effects of foot dorsiflexion. Tightness or discomfort in the buttocks or hamstrings is common during these maneuvers and should not be interpreted as "radiating pain" or a positive test.

In addition, be sure to examine motor and sensory function and reflexes at the lumbosacral levels.

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