In the Windlass test protocol, which statement describes the procedure?

In the Windlass test protocol, which statement describes the procedure?

• A. The arch elevation is observed when the great toe is extended in weight bearing or non weight bearing.
• B. The great toe is extended passively in weight bearing and arch height is measured.
• C. The arch is compressed while the toes are flexed
• D. The great toe is passively extended in weight bearing or non weight bearing while observing arch elevation.

Answer: (D)

The Windlass test checks plantar fascia tension by dorsiflexing the great toe, which tightens the plantar fascia and lifts the arch. The procedure is best described as the great toe being passively extended in either weight bearing or non weight bearing while you observe arch elevation. Doing it passively isolates the plantar fascia’s contribution and allows the arch to rise due to the windlass mechanism, whether the foot is standing or relaxed. The other options don’t fit this sequence: they either imply active toe extension, involve arch compression, or restrict to one condition (weight bearing) or misstate the observation.

The Windlass test checks plantar fascia tension by dorsiflexing the great toe, which tightens the plantar fascia and lifts the arch. The procedure is best described as the great toe being passively extended in either weight bearing or non weight bearing while you observe arch elevation. Doing it passively isolates the plantar fascia’s contribution and allows the arch to rise due to the windlass mechanism, whether the foot is standing or relaxed. The other options don’t fit this sequence: they either imply active toe extension, involve arch compression, or restrict to one condition (weight bearing) or misstate the observation.