The value of provocative tests for the wrist and elbow: A literature review

Valdes K, Lastayo P (Hand Works Therapy, Sarasota, FL; Univ of Utah, Salt Lake City) J Hand Ther 26:32-43, 2013^§

Abstract

To describe and determine the usefulness of provocative tests for the wrist and elbow a literature search was performed. A total of 31 diagnostic studies were identified, assessed, and ranked. The highest ranking tests had a mean positive likelihood ratio of ≥2.0, or a mean negative likelihood ratio of ≤0.5, from more than one study. The highly recommended tests were found to be the Phalen’s, Tinel’s test for carpal tunnel and cubital tunnel, and modified compression test, scaphoid shift test, and elbow flexion test. A total of 14 tests met our requirements to be considered a recommended test. A greater number of provocative tests either do not have adequate data to support their usefulness or their clinical utility has not been assessed. This information may assist hand therapists in choosing which provocative tests are considered clinically useful in improving the probability of the presence or absence of pathology in the hand, wrist, and elbow.

Only gold members can continue reading. Log In or Register to continue

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Related

Related posts:

of the Wrist and Associated Triangular Fibrocartilage Lesions: A Prospective Study in Arthroscopically-treated Patients of Sensory Reeducation Programs on Functional Hand Sensibility after Median and Ulnar Repair: A Systematic Review Biomechanical Comparison of 3 Loop Suture Materials in a 6-Strand Flexor Tendon Repair Technique Results of the Darrach Procedure: A Long-Term Outcome Study Longitudinal Follow-up of Mini-Open Rotator Cuff Repair of the Brief International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) Core Set for Hand Conditions

Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel

Join