The Elbow

Basic Functional Examination

The basic functional examination is standardized, which permits a systematic search for signs.
All the different tissues of the elbow are tested in a functional way: They are brought selectively under tension and the results are noted.
The combination of positive and negative answers forms a pattern that leads to a diagnosis.

Applied to the elbow

The basic elbow examination consists of 10 tests:

four passive tests (flexion; extension; pronation; supination)
for resisted movements (flexion; extension; pronation; supination)
two resisted tests for the wrist (palmar flexion and dorsal flexion)

Interpretation

After having performed all ten tests, the sum of both positive and negative answers forms a pattern pointing to a pathology or a group of pathologies.