The word "Gillet test" refers to a physical examination used to evaluate the mobility and flexibility of the lower back. The spelling of "Gillet" is pronounced with three syllables using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ʒi.leɪ/. The first syllable begins with the voiced palato-alveolar fricative sound /ʒ/, followed by the second syllable which consists of the long vowel sound /i/ and the voiced alveolar lateral approximate sound /l/. The third syllable ends with the diphthong /eɪ/. Proper spelling and pronunciation are essential for effective communication in medical settings.
The Gillet test, also known as the Standing Posterior Superior Iliac Spine (PSIS) test, is a diagnostic examination used by healthcare professionals to assess the mobility and alignment of the sacroiliac (SI) joint. This joint connects the triangular bone at the base of the spine, called the sacrum, to the ilium bone of the pelvis. The Gillet test is particularly utilized in the field of chiropractic medicine and physical therapy.
During the Gillet test, the patient stands upright with their feet shoulder-width apart. The examiner then palpates and observes the movement of the PSIS, located at the uppermost part of the posterior iliac crest. First, the examiner monitors the movement of the PSIS on the side of the patient's leg that is being lifted. The patient is then instructed to slowly lift the leg being examined, bending the knee and bringing the heel towards the buttock. The examiner looks for any discrepancy in the movement or positioning of the PSIS as compared to the opposite side.
If the PSIS on the side of the lifted leg does not move superiorly as the leg is flexed, it may indicate a restriction or dysfunction within the SI joint. This observation can help the healthcare professional identify potential imbalances or dysfunctions in the joint, guiding further assessment and treatment.
Overall, the Gillet test serves as a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing the mobility and functionality of the sacroiliac joint and plays a crucial role in the evaluation and treatment of SI joint-related issues.
The term "Gillet test" takes its name from the French physician Prosper Ménière-Gillet. The etymology of "Gillet" is in reference to him being the developer or popularizer of the test. However, it's worth noting that the test itself, also known as "Gillet's test" or "Gillet's maneuver", is used to assess the mobility and functionality of the sacroiliac joint, a joint between the sacrum (lower part of the spine) and the ilium (pelvis).