Physical examination maneuver

Physical Exam

Kernig Sign

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Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

With the patient supine, flex one hip and knee to 90°. While holding the hip flexed, slowly attempt to passively extend the knee. A positive sign is resistance or pain (in the back or hamstrings) that prevents the knee from straightening — classically the knee cannot be extended beyond about 135°.

How to Interpret

Showing all 1 finding

Meningitis

Kernig's sign positive
Rule in
Not helpful
Rule out
Not helpful
Evidence:Limited

References

  • Thomas KE, Hasbun R, Jekel J, Quagliarello VJ. The diagnostic accuracy of Kernig's sign, Brudzinski's sign, and nuchal rigidity in adults with suspected meningitis. Clin Infect Dis. 2002;35(1):46-52. doi:10.1086/340979. PubMed: 12060874
  • Kernig VM. Über ein Krankheitssymptom der acuten Meningitis. St Petersb Med Wochenschr. 1882;7:398.

Related Diagnoses

Meningitis

Related Systems / Regions

Lower ExtremitiesNeurological

Related Bedside Tests

🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Brudzinski Sign
aka Nape-of-the-neck sign
Rule in:NHMeningitis
Rule out:NHMeningitis
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Nuchal Rigidity
Rule in:NHMeningitis
Rule out:NHMeningitis
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Ophthalmoscopy
aka Fundoscopy
Rule in:VHGlaucoma, SHDiabetic Retinopathy, MHIncreased Intracranial Pressure +13 more
Rule out:SHGlaucoma, MHDiabetic Retinopathy, MHIncreased Intracranial Pressure +13 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Heart Rate
Rule in:HAtrial Fibrillation, SHHypothyroidism, SHPneumonia +7 more
Rule out:VHAtrial Fibrillation, MHAdverse Short-term Outcome in Confirmed Pulmonary Embolism, IECardiac Tamponade +5 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Mouth and Tongue Inspection
Rule in:SHMeasles, IEAcute Leukemia, IEAdrenal Insufficiency +9 more
Rule out:SHHypovolemia, MHMeasles, IEAcute Leukemia +10 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Pronator Drift
Rule in:VHBrain Tumor, HStroke, NHUpper Motor Neuron Lesion +1 more
Rule out:VHStroke, MHBrain Tumor, NHUpper Motor Neuron Lesion +1 more