Shoulder
Neurological
Evidence: confirmed
ULTT 2b (Radial Nerve Bias) Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Screening for Radial Nerve tension.
How to Perform
- Action: Depression of shoulder, Abduction 10°, Elbow extension, Internal rotation, Wrist flexion (Waiters Tip position).
Interpretation of Results
- Positive Test: Symptom reproduction in radial distribution.
Clinical Context & Limitations
The ULTT 2b (Radial 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 2b (Radial Nerve Bias) with complementary examination tests significantly improves overall diagnostic confidence.
References
- Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.
