The Thessaly maneuver assesses what structure within the knee?

The Thessaly maneuver is specifically designed to assess the integrity of the meniscus, which is a critical structure in the knee joint responsible for shock absorption, stability, and load distribution. During the test, the patient stands on one leg while flexing the knee to about 20 degrees, and then rotates the body. This movement stresses the meniscus, allowing the clinician to evaluate for signs of injury, such as pain, locking, or clicking.

This test is particularly effective because it replicates the forces that occur in everyday activities and athletic movements that may lead to meniscal tears. A positive Thessaly test indicates potential meniscal pathology, making it a valuable tool in the clinical evaluation of knee injuries.