Elbow
Evidence: confirmed
Elbow Range of Motion Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Measuring functional and physiological limits of the elbow joint.
How to Perform
- Flexion/Extension: Measure the angle at the elbow (Normal: 0° to 145/150°).
- Pronation: Forearm rotation palm down (Normal: ~75°).
- Supination: Forearm rotation palm up (Normal: ~85°).
Clinical Tips & Notes
| Movement | ROM (Magee) | Functional ROM |
|---|---|---|
| Flexion | 145-150° | 30-130° |
| Extension | 0° | - |
| Pronation | 75° | 50° |
| Supination | 85° | 50° |
Clinical Context & Limitations
The Elbow Range of Motion should be considered as one component of a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. No single special test has perfect diagnostic accuracy; thus, clinical decision-making should integrate test results with patient-reported symptoms, mechanism of injury, functional impairment, and relevant imaging.
Clinicians should be aware of potential false-positive results in patients with pain sensitisation, muscle guarding, or poor relaxation. For the Elbow region, combining the Elbow Range of Motion with complementary examination tests significantly improves overall diagnostic confidence.
References
- Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.
