Understanding the Maudsley's Test (Middle Finger Extension Test) Assessment
To screen for **Lateral Epicondylitis** (Tennis Elbow), specifically placing stress on the Extensor Digitorum Communis (EDC) muscle.
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is sitting. Arm is resting comfortably.
What happens?
The examiner resists **extension of the patient's middle finger** while the elbow is in an extended position. The examiner simultaneously palpates the lateral epicondyle.
Clinical Accuracy
88%
N/A
Source: Saroja et al. (2014)
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
Pain is reproduced over the **lateral epicondyle** or just distal to it.
Helpful Tip:
This is a variant used to isolate the stress on the EDC tendon, which is often involved in Lateral Epicondylitis.
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 Flexion Test
To provoke symptoms associated with **Cubital Tunnel Syndrome** (ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow).