How to perform Matles Test

Definition/Description:

Definition: The Matles Test is a visual diagnostic test for suspected rupture of achilles tendon.

   

 The patient lies in prone, active or passively flexing the knee to 90° with both feet and ankles in a neutral position according to the patient. When an absence of plantar flexion is observed, the test proves positive. The rupture will tend the foot more into dorsal flexion.

Clinically Relevant Anatomy:

The Achilles Tendon consists of the tendons from 2 major muscles: the Gastrocnemius muscle, a bi-articular muscle that finds it's origin on both the lateral and medial epicondyle and the Soleus muscle, which finds it's origin on the dorsal aspect of the tibia and fibula. Sometimes the Plantaris muscle is also present. This is a small muscle in the Popliteal Fossa facing it's lateral aspect. It has a very long tendon and inserts together with the Soleus and Gastrocnemius muscle on the back of the heel bone (Calcaneus).