During the Windlass test, which observation is essential?

During the Windlass test, which observation is essential?

• A. Navicular height increases
• B. Arch elevation is observed when the great toe is extended
• C. Heel pain decreases
• D. Patient's foot length changes

Answer: (B)

The Windlass test checks how the plantar fascia behaves when the toes are extended. When you dorsiflex the great toe, the plantar fascia becomes taut and pulls on the heel, lifting the medial longitudinal arch. That elevation of the arch during toe extension is the essential observation, because it demonstrates the windlass mechanism functioning and indicates the plantar fascia is intact. If the arch doesn’t rise, it suggests an issue with the plantar fascia or the windlass mechanism. While changes in navicular height can reflect arch changes, the key sign the test looks for is the arch elevation with toe extension. Heel pain patterns may accompany a positive sign, but the critical observation is the arch rising.

The Windlass test checks how the plantar fascia behaves when the toes are extended. When you dorsiflex the great toe, the plantar fascia becomes taut and pulls on the heel, lifting the medial longitudinal arch. That elevation of the arch during toe extension is the essential observation, because it demonstrates the windlass mechanism functioning and indicates the plantar fascia is intact. If the arch doesn’t rise, it suggests an issue with the plantar fascia or the windlass mechanism. While changes in navicular height can reflect arch changes, the key sign the test looks for is the arch elevation with toe extension. Heel pain patterns may accompany a positive sign, but the critical observation is the arch rising.