Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

Which nerve root is primarily tested during the Stork test?

1. L1-L2

2. L3

3. L4

4. L5

The correct answer is: L1-L2

The Stork test is primarily designed to assess the integrity of the L1-L2 nerve roots, which are involved in hip flexion and stabilization. During the test, the subject typically stands on one leg while flexing the opposite knee to bring the heel towards the buttock. This position engages the iliopsoas muscle, which is innervated by the L1 and L2 nerve roots. By examining the individual's ability to maintain balance and stability while performing this movement, clinicians can gather information about the functioning of these specific nerve roots. In contrast, the other options pertain to different activities or muscle functions. For example, the L3 nerve root is primarily involved with knee extension, the L4 with ankle dorsiflexion, and the L5 with toe extension and sensory innervation of the lateral aspect of the leg and foot. Therefore, these roots are not the primary focus of the Stork test, which is aimed at evaluating the hip and proximal lower limb function associated with the L1-L2 nerve roots.