Test: Passive Prone Elbow Flexion

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Background/Purpose

Procedure

This test will assess passive elbow flexion in a non-postural position. Patient lies prone with arms at sides. Clinician passively flexes elbow to bring thumb to shoulder. Arm should remain at their side. A fail may indicate an elbow joint dysfunction or extended shoulder dysfunction of joint or tissues. A pass may indicate an elbow flexion motor control dysfunction with the shoulder extended.
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Patient lies prone with arms at sides. Clinician passively flexes elbow to bring thumb to shoulder. Arm should remain at their side.

Criteria

• Touch the thumb to the shoulder.

Measurement

145.00 degrees

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail