A positive Thompson test indicates Achilles tendon rupture. Which option best describes this finding?

A positive Thompson test indicates Achilles tendon rupture. Which option best describes this finding?

• A. Achilles tendon rupture
• B. Deltoid ligament injury
• C. Tibial fracture
• D. Ankle osteoarthritis

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how the Thompson test assesses the Achilles tendon. When you squeeze the calf, a normal Achilles tendon transmits the calf muscle contraction to the foot, causing plantarflexion. If the tendon is ruptured, squeezing the calf won’t produce plantarflexion because the connection to the heel is torn. That lack of plantarflexion with a calf squeeze is what makes the test positive and points to an Achilles tendon rupture. The other injuries involve different ankle structures (medial ligament injuries, a broken tibia, or degenerative joint disease) and wouldn’t produce this specific failure of plantarflexion with a calf squeeze.

The key idea is how the Thompson test assesses the Achilles tendon. When you squeeze the calf, a normal Achilles tendon transmits the calf muscle contraction to the foot, causing plantarflexion. If the tendon is ruptured, squeezing the calf won’t produce plantarflexion because the connection to the heel is torn. That lack of plantarflexion with a calf squeeze is what makes the test positive and points to an Achilles tendon rupture. The other injuries involve different ankle structures (medial ligament injuries, a broken tibia, or degenerative joint disease) and wouldn’t produce this specific failure of plantarflexion with a calf squeeze.