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Ulnar Nerve Elbow Flexion Test

Test, Exam and Sign Description

The elbow flexion test, a provocative maneuver can render the ulnar nerve symptomatic by fully flexing the elbow with the wrist in the neurtral position.

DESCRIPTION

The wrist is held in extension and the elbow is passively flexed for 1 minute.

Presentation Photos and Related Diagrams
  • Ulnar Nerve Elbow Flexion Test
    Ulnar Nerve Elbow Flexion Test
Definition of Positive Result
  • A positive result will demonstrate pain, numbness and tingling in the distribution of the ulnar nerve within 60 seconds.
Definition of Negative Result
  • A negative result will demonstrate no symptoms of pain, numbness and tingling.
Comments and Pearls
  • When the elbow flexion test is positive, there appears to be a correlation with electrophysiologic cirteria for compression at the elbow.
  • Like the Tinel's test, there is a significant false positive incidence of up to 10 percent.
Diagnoses Associated with Tests, Exams and Signs
CUBITAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
GOLFER'S ELBOW (MEDIAL EPICONDYLITIS)
Video
Ulnar Nerve Elbow Flexion Test
References

1. Peimer, C. (1996). Compression Neuropathies: Ulnar. In Surgery of the hand and upper extremity (Vol. 2, pp. 1345-1346). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, Health Professions Division.

2. Skinner, H., McMahon, P.  (2014). Hand Surgery. In Current diagnosis & treatment in orthopedics (5th ed., p. 484). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Medical