Special Tests
The medial and lateral collateral ligaments should be stressed with valgus and varus forces across the joint in 30 degrees of flexion. Increased pain and/or laxity are suggestive of ligamentous sprain.
Extensor tendinopathy
The common extensor tendon insertion should be palpated during resisted wrist extension with the forearm pronated, increased pain is suggestive of extensor tendinopathy, otherwise known as lateral epicondylosis or ‘tennis elbow’.
Flexor tendinopathy
Similarly, increased pain located at the common flexor tendon insertion during resisted wrist flexion with the forearm supinated, is suggestive of flexor tendinopathy, also known as medial epicondylosis or ‘golfer’s elbow’.
As with all musculoskeletal injuries the neurovascular status of the distal limb should be assessed. Specifically median, radial and ulnar nerve sensory and motor functions should be tested, along with palpation of the radial and ulnar pulses.