Test: Upper Limb Tension Test - Median Nerve

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Background/Purpose

Neural tension testing is done to assess the mobility of the neural structures through the various pathways of the nerve. Often, multiple nerves will travel through a similar pathway with subtle changes to positioning affecting different nerves.
The brachial plexus contains many primary nerves which can each receive more or less stretch depending on the movements of the upper extremity.

Procedure

This test is first performed on the non-involved side and then the involved side.
Movements are performed one at a time until symptoms are produced. Subject can be placed in a seated or supine position. 1. Shoulder girdle depression 2. Shoulder joint abduction 3. Forearm supination 4. Wrist and finger extension 5. Shoulder joint laterally rotated 6. Elbow extension 7. Contralateral head tilt
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Tension test of the median nerve.

Criteria

• Pain free motion
• No reproduction of symptoms
• Full ROM

Measurement

0.00

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail