Yeoman’s Test

Yeoman’s Test is an orthopedic maneuver used to assess for sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction or inflammation (sacroiliitis). It may also help uncover anterior SI ligament pathology, lumbar facet issues, or less commonly, hip flexor tightness or femoral nerve tension depending on the pain location.

Yeoman's Test

How the Test is Performed

  • Client position: Prone (lying face down) near the edge of the treatment table.

  • The examiner flexes the client’s knee to 90° on the tested side and stabilizes the ipsilateral (same side) pelvis, typically with light pressure on the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS).

  • The examiner then passively hyperextends the hip (lifts the thigh upward off the table), creating tension across the SI joint and its anterior ligaments.

  • A positive test: Reproduction of familiar pain in the SIJ or buttock region.

    • If pain is more anterior (front of thigh/inguinal region), hip flexor tightness or femoral nerve irritation may be suspected.

Clinical Significance

  • The test stresses the SIJ and its anterior ligaments; pain in the SI region suggests SIJ dysfunction, inflammation, or sprain.

  • Anterior pain may indicate hip flexor tightness or femoral nerve involvement, while lumbar or low back pain during the maneuver may point to facet joint involvement.

  • Yeoman’s Test is best used with other SIJ provocation tests (FABER, Gaenslen, thigh thrust) for increased diagnostic accuracy—no test alone is definitive.

Assessment

  • Use Yeoman’s Test in clients with chronic low back, buttock, or pelvic pain, especially if SIJ dysfunction or inflammation is suspected.

  • Record where and how pain is reproduced, the severity, and which movement provokes symptoms; assess both sides for comparison.

Treatment

  • If positive for SI pain:

    • Avoid aggressive deep tissue work, joint mobilization, or forceful stretching directly over the SIJ.

    • Focus on gentle soft tissue release to lumbar, gluteal, and pelvic stabilizer muscles to reduce compensatory tension and support function.

    • Educate clients on pelvic stability, posture, and activity modification to minimize SIJ strain.

  • If inguinal/front of thigh pain appears, also examine hip flexor muscle length and consider gentle stretching/mobilization as tolerated.

Safety and Referral

  • Refer to a physician or specialist for severe, persistent, or functionally limiting SIJ or low back pain—especially if symptoms are progressive or accompanied by neurological changes.

  • Collaborate with physiotherapists and other providers for multidisciplinary management of confirmed SIJ dysfunction.