Physical examination of the patient with a knee complaint begins with inspection.
1) Observation of the alignment of the lower extremity should demonstrate a normal 7 degree valgus (knock-knee) angle at the knee when a patient is standing. Deformity of the leg in varus or valgus beyond 7 degrees can be associated with either a ligamentous or osseous deficiency.
2) Next, the evaluation focuses on the patient’s gait. Normal gait involves the range of motion from 0 to 65 degrees of flexion. The gait should have a smooth cadence, with the length of each step being equal on the left and right sides. The knee should not demonstrate any sudden shift to either the lateral or medial side.