Understanding the Elbow Flexion Test Assessment
To provoke symptoms associated with **Cubital Tunnel Syndrome** (ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow).
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is sitting or standing.
What happens?
The patient is asked to maximally **flex both elbows** and maintain the position with the wrists extended for **3 to 5 minutes**.
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
The reproduction of the patient's symptoms, such as **pain, numbness, or paresthesia** in the distribution of the ulnar nerve (little finger and ulnar half of the ring finger).
Helpful Tip:
Maximal elbow flexion narrows the cubital tunnel, increasing tension and compression on the ulnar nerve.
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.
Beighton Score
To quantify **generalized joint hypermobility** (laxity) across the body, which can be a predisposing factor for elbow instability or other injuries.
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 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.