Posterolateral Rotatory Drawer Test Special Test

What is it used for?

• Testing for PLRI (Rotatory instability of the radius/ulna unit).

How to Perform

• Position: Patient lies supine with the arm overhead and elbow flexed 90°.
• Action: Examiner stabilizes the humerus and applies a posterior/rotatory force to the radius and ulna, attempting to subluxate them off the capitellum.

Interpretation of Results

• Positive Test: A visible skin dimple (suction sign) or apprehension/clunk indicating subluxation.

References

• Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.