The objective of this review paper was to provide an evidence informed overview on the anatomical, mechanical and clinical basis for straight leg raise (SLR) as a neurodynamic test in the evaluation and treatment of neuroorthopaedic disorders. There were four anatomical studies that measured nerve­specific strain and excursion during different movement combinations of SLR, four mechanical studies that evaluated responses to structural differentiation in asymptomatic participants, and seven clinical studies that reported interlimb differences, measurements using ultrasonography and handheld inclinometer, and psychometric properties in people with lumbar disc herniation, lumbar radiculopathy and/or sciatica. There is scope for further research using modified SLR techniques for common peroneal, sural and saphenous nerves.

Keywords: Straight Leg Raise; Physical Examination; Neurodynamic Testing; Clinical Orthopaedics.