When assessing a knee injury from skiing, which assessment should be performed first?

In assessing a knee injury from skiing, it is crucial to begin with an evaluation of the tibiofemoral joint play. This assessment focuses on the joint's mobility and can help identify potential issues such as ligamentous instability or mechanical restrictions in the knee. Assessing joint play first allows the clinician to understand the functional status of the knee joint, which is vital for developing a treatment plan.

Understanding the joint play provides insight into the overall health of the joint and its surroundings. It can reveal essential information regarding the integrity of the ligaments, the alignment of the joint surfaces, and the presence of any restrictions that might affect movement. This foundational information is beneficial before proceeding to more dynamic assessments like manual muscle testing or functional movements such as a standing squat, which require a stable joint for accurate evaluation.

Starting with tibiofemoral joint play ensures that any significant joint dysfunction is identified and addressed early in the assessment process, thereby informing subsequent examinations and interventions effectively.