Elbow Special Tests – Flashcards

Elbow Varus stress test, Elbow Valgus stress test

Crozen's test, Mill's test

Tinel's test for elbow

pt in sitting with entire UE supported and elbow flexed 20 - 30 deg. PT places one hand on the elbow and the other proximal to the wrist. PT applies an outward force to the elbow. (+) increased laxity in the lateral collateral ligament when compared to the contralateral limb (+) apprehension or pain. Indicates radial/lateral collateral ligament laxity, instability, and possible strain.

pt in sitting with entire UE supported and elbow flexed 20 - 30 deg. PT places one hand on the elbow and the other proximal to the wrist. PT applies an inward force to the elbow. (+) increased laxity in the medial collateral ligament when compared to the contralateral limb (+) apprehension or pain. Indicates ulnar/medial collateral ligament laxity, instability, and possible strain.

pt in sitting with the elbow flexed 90 deg and supported/stabilized. PT stabilizes elbow with his/her thumb and other hand on dorsal aspect of testing hand. PT instructs pt to make a fist, pronate forearm f/b RD and extension of the wrist while PT resists the motion. (+) sudden severe pain in the lateral epicondyle region or muscle weakness. Identifies lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow).

pt in sitting with arm relaxed and supported by PT. PT palpates the medial epicondyle. PT supinates the forearm, extends the wrist, and extends the elbow. (+) pain in the medial epicondyle region. Identifies medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow).

pt in sitting with arm relaxed and supported by PT. PT palpates the lateral epicondyle. PT pronates the forearm, flexes the wrist, and extends the elbow. (+) pain in the lateral epicondyle region. Identifies lateral epicondylitis (may also ID problems with the radial nerve).

pt in sitting with the elbow in slight flexion. PT supports the UE at the wrist. PT taps with the index finger b/w the olecranon process and the medial epicondyle. (+) tingling sensation in the ulnar nerve distribution of the forearm, hand, and fingers. Indicates dysfunction of ulnar nerve @ the olecranon.

pt in sitting with elbow flexed 90 deg. PT places one hand stabilizing the elbow and the other proximal to the wrist. PT resists forearm pronation and elbow extension simultaneously. (+) tingling or paresthesia within the median nerve distribution.