Understanding the Wartenberg's Sign Assessment
To test for **Ulnar Nerve palsy/weakness**, specifically of the Palmar Interossei, which leads to unopposed abduction of the little finger.
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is sitting with hands resting palms down.
What happens?
The patient is asked to **adduct all fingers** (bring them together). The examiner observes the position of the fingers.
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
The **little finger remains persistently abducted** (stuck out laterally) and cannot be actively pulled fully next to the ring finger.
Helpful Tip:
This sign may be present in patients with Ulnar Nerve compression proximal to the elbow (Cubital Tunnel) or wrist (Guyon's Canal).
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
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).
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.