Upper Limb Tension Tests (ULTTs)
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Introduction[edit | edit source]
The Brachial Plexus Tension or Elvey Test, also known as Upper Limb Tension Tests,[1] are designed to put stress on neurological structures of upper limb. These tests were first described by Elvey[2] and hence also known as Elvey test but most commonly called ULTT. The ULTT's are equivalent to the straight leg raise designed for the lumbar spine.
Purpose[edit | edit source]
These tension tests are performed to check the peripheral nerve compression or as a part of neurodynamic assessment. These tests are performed as a cluster to check cervical radiculopathy. These tests are both diagnostic and therapeutic. Once the diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy is made the tests are done to mobilise the entrapped nerve
Technique[edit | edit source]
The shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist and fingers are kept in specific position to put stress on particular nerve (nerve bias)[3] and further modification in position of each joint is done as "sensitiser". [4]
Each test is done on the normal/asymptomatic side first. Traditionally for the upper limb, the order of joint positioning is shoulder followed by forearm, wrist, fingers, and lastly elbow. Each joint positioning component is added until the pain is provoked or symptoms are reproduced. To further sensitive the upper limb tests, side flexion of cervical spine can be added[4]. If pain is provoked in the very initial position, then there is no need to add further sensitisers.
If pain or sensations of tingling or numbness are experienced at any stage during movement into the test position or during addition of sensitisation manoeuvres, particularly reproduction of neck, shoulder or arm symptoms, the test is positive; this confirms a degree of mechanical interference affecting neural structures.
Positive Test
The test is positive if one or more of the following occurs:
- Symptoms reproduced
- Side to side difference in elbow extension greater than 10 degrees
- Contralateral cervical side bending increases symptoms, or ipsilateral side bending decreases symptoms
Upper Limb Tension Test 1 (ULTT1, Median nerve bias)[edit | edit source]
See here for more info on this test. |
[5] |
Upper Limb Tension Test 2A (ULTT2A, Median nerve bias)[edit | edit source]
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[6] |
Upper Limb Tension Test 2B (ULTT2B, Radial nerve bias)[edit | edit source]
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[7] |
Upper Limb Tension Test 3 (ULTT3, Ulnar nerve bias)[edit | edit source]
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[8] |
Musculocutaneous Nerve Tension Test (ULTT musculocutaneous)[edit | edit source]
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[9] |
Evidence[edit | edit source]
Diagnostic Accuracy[10]
Reference standard cervical radiculopathy as diagnosed by needle electromyography and nerve conduction studies.
Sensitivity= .50
Specificity= .86
-LR= .58
+LR= 3.5
Reliability
Inter-examiner Kappa= .76
Resources[edit | edit source]
For more information visit this Physiopedia page Neurodynamic Assessment
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Magee DJ.Orthopaedic physical assessment.5th edition.Elsevier publication.
- ↑ Elvey RL: The investigation of arm pain. In Boyling JD, Palastanga N (eds): Grieve’s modern manual therapy: the vertebral column, 2nd ed. Edinburgh, 1994, Churchill Livingstone.
- ↑ Butler DS: Mobilisation of the nervous system, Melbourne, 1991, Churchill Livingstone.
- ↑ Flynn TW, Cleland JA, Whitman JM. Users' Guide To The Musculoskeletal Examination. Evidence in Motion; 2008.
- ↑ Physical Therapy Nation.Upper Limb Tension Test (Median Nerve Bias). Available from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3DSgCOXpWc [last accessed 24/10/2020]
- ↑ Jason Craig. Upper Limb Tension Test 2a (Median Nerve). Available from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4j7dQs0UVM [last accessed 24/10/2020]
- ↑ Physical Therapy Nation. Upper Limb Tension Test (Radial Nerve Bias). Available from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3ivtuDwCDI [last accessed 24/10/2020]
- ↑ Physical Therapy Nation. Upper Limb Tension Test (Ulnar Nerve Bias). Available from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKnpaf7OI7s [last accessed 24/10/2020]
- ↑ Danielle McNally. Musculocutaneous Nerve Assessment. Available from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEfZ5GjqylY [last accessed 24/10/2020]
- ↑ Hartley A. Practical Joint Assessment. St Louis: Mosby; 1995.