McConnell’s Test

McConnell’s Test is an orthopedic assessment used to evaluate patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) and the contribution of abnormal patellar tracking to anterior knee pain. The test helps identify pain related to patellofemoral dysfunction and the effectiveness of medial patellar glide or McConnell taping.

How the Test is Performed

• Client position: Seated with knees over the edge of the chair or table, hips and knees flexed.

• The client performs an isometric quadriceps contraction (knee extension) at different angles: typically at 120°, 90°, 60°, 30°, and full extension.

• At each angle, the examiner asks about the presence and intensity of anterior knee pain.

• If pain is present, the examiner manually displaces the patella medially (medial glide) and the isometric contraction is repeated.

• A positive test: Pain is present during resisted knee extension at one or more angles, but is relieved or significantly reduced when a medial patellar glide is applied.

Clinical Significance

• A positive McConnell’s Test suggests patellofemoral pain related to lateral patellar tracking or malalignment (often called “maltracking” PFPS).

• The test helps predict which clients might benefit from interventions such as McConnell taping, quadriceps retraining, or proprioceptive correction.

• Useful to differentiate patellofemoral pain from other knee pain sources (tibiofemoral arthritis, meniscal injury, etc.).

• A negative test suggests pain is less likely from patellar tracking and more likely from intra-articular or other structures.

Assessment

• Use for clients with anterior knee pain aggravated by loaded flexion (stairs, squats) or prolonged sitting (“theatre sign”).

• Carefully document:

  • The angle(s) at which pain is present or relieved

  • Response to medial patellar glide/taping

  • Any functional changes during the test or with taping.

Treatment

• If positive:

  • Avoid aggressive manual therapy over the patella, especially lateral mobilization.

  • Focus on gentle soft tissue techniques for quadriceps (especially VMO), hip abductors/external rotators, and ITB as indicated.

  • Provide or refer for McConnell taping or patellar retraining exercises—address lateral tracking with proprioceptive re-education and quad strengthening.

  • Educate on safe loading strategies, movement modification, and self-taping if appropriate.

Safety and Referral

• Refer for further physiotherapy or orthopedic evaluation if pain is severe, functionally limiting, or does not improve with conservative strategies.

• Use the results to inform access to taping, bracing, or rehab as indicated.