There are some very important points to remember when examining an injured knee.

Good visualisation is essential, including thighs, knees, lower legs and feet, therefore the patient’s shoes and socks must be taken off and the thighs exposed.

If possible, the patient should be examined on a couch, allowing full access to both sides.

Examination must be systematic and gradual, so that nothing is missed. Relaxation is essential, particularly when examining for ligament laxity. The non-injured knee should be examined before the injured one.