Non-Dermatomal Findings, Differential Straight-Leg-Raising Tests and Other Waddell Signs

Waddell, et al., suggested that people with signs in three or more categories should be evaluated for possible psychological disorders. Subsequently, WS have been taken out of context and suggested to be evidence of malingering. While some people who are malingering might display signs in three or more WS categories, it is noteworthy that malingering was not the original red flag to consider. Malingering is a deliberate attempt to deceive or fake an injury for the purpose of being compensated, getting excused from work, military service, etc.