Which condition is indicated by a positive McMurray test?

A positive McMurray test is indicative of a meniscal tear in the knee. This clinical examination involves the physician or clinician flexing and rotating the knee while applying a valgus or varus stress, which can elicit a click or pop sound if there is a meniscal tear present. The test specifically assesses the integrity of the meniscus and can provide information about whether there has been an injury or degeneration of the meniscal cartilage.

When the test is positive, it suggests that the meniscus, which acts as a shock absorber in the knee, is compromised in its structure. This is often accompanied by symptoms such as pain, swelling, and a sensation of locking or instability in the knee. The accuracy of the McMurray test relies on the clinician’s ability to reproduce these symptoms during the examination. Therefore, a positive result is strongly associated with meniscal injuries.