Table 3.

Single Leg Squat Test Protocol

Each individual must wear shorts that enables the evaluator to observe their knee position throughout the entire SLST. A “T” (6” horizontal and 10” vertical) will be marked with 1 ½” white athletic tape on the floor. Patients will be instructed to stand barefoot with both legs shoulder width apart and parallel to each other, with arms positioned at their side. They are instructed to place their unaffected foot on the long axis of the “T” shape with the second metatarsal aligned perpendicular to the stem but not touching the line. The individuals will then transition to a single leg-stance on the unaffected leg with the non-stance knee flexed to 90 ° and thigh vertically aligned with the stance leg. While maintaining a straight trunk the participants are then instructed to squat down until they can no longer see the line in front of their toes (∼45-60 degrees of flexion), while maintaining a balanced and controlled motion at a rate of 1 squat per 2 seconds. After completion of each repetition the individuals will return to their original standing position before beginning another squat. The SLST will be performed a total of 3 times. The participants then will complete 3 repetitions on the affected side. A single investigator will demonstrate the entire procedure before the participation of an individual.

The evaluator assessed the overall test performance of the individuals affected side. Along with an overall impression, each repetition was graded as “positive” or “negative” for the five criteria listed below. For the individual to pass, the evaluator must first grade the overall impression of test performance as passing. Second, a total of 4 out of the 5 specific criteria must be negative for deviation. A passing grade of at least 1 out of the 3 tests are needed for evaluation. Therefore, failing 2 out of 3 tests still elicits a passing assessment.

Scoring Criteria Overall impression (balance, gross arm deviation, ability to perform test) Trunk movement (forward lean, lateral rotation, lateral flexion, thoracic rotation) Posture of the pelvis (tilt or rotation) Posture of the hip joint (adduction or internal rotation) Posture of the knee (knee valgus or tremor) Depth of squat (compared bilaterally, orientation with T)

SLST – single leg squat test