Shoulder
Neurological
Evidence: confirmed
ULTT 1 (Median Nerve Bias) Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Screening for Cervical Radiculopathy or Median Nerve tension.
How to Perform
- Action: Depress shoulder, Abduct arm 110°, Extend wrist/fingers, Supinate forearm, Extend elbow.
- Sensitizing: Tilt head to opposite side.
Interpretation of Results
- Positive Test: Reproduction of symptoms (tingling/pain) that changes with head tilt.
Diagnostic Accuracy
- Sensitivity: High (excellent screening tool).
Clinical Context & Limitations
The ULTT 1 (Median Nerve Bias) 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 Shoulder region, combining the ULTT 1 (Median Nerve Bias) with complementary examination tests significantly improves overall diagnostic confidence.
References
- Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.
