Understanding the Beighton Score Assessment
To quantify **generalized joint hypermobility** (laxity) across the body, which can be a predisposing factor for elbow instability or other injuries.
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is standing and sitting, depending on the component being tested.
What happens?
The full score includes 9 points, testing bilateral hyperextension of the little finger, passive apposition of the thumb to the forearm, elbow hyperextension, knee hyperextension, and forward flexion of the trunk (palms to floor). For the **elbow** component: Examiner attempts to hyperextend the elbow beyond 10°.
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A score of **4/9 or more** is generally indicative of generalized joint hypermobility. A positive elbow component is **hyperextension > 10°**.
Helpful Tip:
Though a general test, it's included here for assessing ligamentous laxity which affects elbow stability.
Safety First
This guide is to help you understand what happens in a clinic. Do not try to diagnose yourself. If you have severe pain, swelling, or cannot put weight on your leg, please visit an urgent care center or your doctor immediately.
Other elbow Tests
Wartenberg's Sign
To test for **Ulnar Nerve palsy/weakness**, specifically of the Palmar Interossei, which leads to unopposed abduction of the little finger.
Elbow Extension Sign
A screening test used to rule out an **intra-articular fracture** (e.g., radial head or olecranon) in an acutely injured elbow.
Elbow Flexion Test
To provoke symptoms associated with **Cubital Tunnel Syndrome** (ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow).
Elbow Quadrant Tests
A generalized term for assessing the **end-feel and range of motion** of the elbow joint in flexion and extension, often used to assess stiffness or loose bodies.