Homan's sign is a clinical test for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) performed by dorsiflexing the patient's foot while observing for pain. A positive Homan's sign indicates DVT if pain occurs during this maneuver, but its sensitivity and specificity are low, ranging from 10-54% and 39-89%, respectively. Therefore, it should be used alongside more accurate diagnostic methods such as ultrasonography and venography.

1. Homan’s Sign for DVT
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3. How do you perform the Homan’s sign test?
• The Homans sign is performed with the patient in supine position.
• The examiner lifts the affected leg and rapidly dorsiflexes the patient’s foot
with the knee extended.
• This maneuver is repeated with the patient’s knee flexed while the
examiner simultaneously palpates the calf.

6. What is a positive Homans sign?
• Homans Sign DVT is positive if pain is occurring upon dorsiflexion of the foot with
the knee extended and flexed indicating deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
• The explanation of the Homans sign is that the passive, abrupt and forced
dorsiflexion of the ankle with knee flexion causes mechanical traction on the
posterior tibial vein. This traction stimulates the pain sensitive structures in the
lower limb.

7. Accuracy & Releability
The sensitivity of homans sign for DVT has been questioned because deep vein thrombosis may not
always produce an abnormal Homans test.
Homans sign test sensitivity and specificity is considered low as a DVT Test; but it can be of value if
used in addition to more accurate diagnostic procedures like ultrasonography and venography.
• Sensitivity: 10-54%
• Specificity: 39-89%