Elbow extension sign

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Purpose
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To test the presence of either a bony fracture or for elbow joint effusion.[1]

Technique
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The patient extends elbow as far as possible while either supine or in a standing position.  The examiner will assess to whether the patient achieves full extension.

A positive test is if the patient is unable to fully extend the elbow.[2]

Evidence[edit | edit source]

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References[edit | edit source]

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  1. Hawksworth CRE, Freeland P. Inability to fully extend teh injured elbow: and indictor for significant injury? Arch of Emerg Med. 1991;8:253-256.
  2. Flynn TW, Cleland JA, Whitman JM. Users' guide to the musculoskeletal examination. United States; Evidence in motion:2008.