Question

Case presentation:  Mrs. Lianne Thomson, a Caucasian female of 45 years old with a BMI of 26, presents to the office with dull ache pain and tingling over the right hand, wrist and elbow.  She is a full-time massage therapist with a career of 15 years  and her pain is gradually getting worse during the last month. Symptoms started about two months ago apparently during her long shifts while she is working. This pain is rated as a 5 or 6 out of 10 and increases in intensity specially after a long day at work. Patient have not experienced this type of pain before and there a remarkable past medical, social and family history.  

List 3 Elbow orthopedic test you think would be positive for this case

Answer 1

The three elbow orthopedic test which can be used and be positive for this case are: -

i) Pinch grip test – This is a test which is basically used to detect the nerve related issues within the elbow. Since she has a dull ache and tingling sensation in the right hand and elbow, it can be due to the compression of the nerves. In this the tip of the index finger and thumb is pinched together and followed by holding the grip for few seconds. There is a nerve problem indicated in the elbow if the patient is not able to pinch the fingertips.

ii) Mill’s test – This type of test is done for elbow examination and is used to test the lateral epicondylitis. In this test is done on the patient and by extending and pronating the elbow of the patient and flexes the wrist. When there is pain near the lateral epicondyle it test positive for the pain in the elbow. This also shows that the pain and tingling may occur due to the stress that is caused on the radial nerve.

iii) Cozen’s Test – This is another test for elbow that can be positive and is also called as resisted wrist extension test. In this the patient’s arm is held at 90 degrees as they make a fist and the elbow is held with one hand whereas the fist of the patient is held with another. As little resistance pressure is applied on the fist, the patient pushes the fist upwards and if there is pain and tingling, it indicates positive test.