Watson Test (Scaphoid Shift) Special Test

What is it used for?

• Diagnosing Scapholunate Ligament Instability.

How to Perform

• Position: Examiner places a thumb on the scaphoid tubercle (palmar side) and moves the patient's wrist from Ulnar Deviation into Radial Deviation.
• Action: Apply constant dorsal pressure on the scaphoid to prevent it from flexing.

Interpretation of Results

• Positive Test: A palpable "clunk" or shift as the scaphoid subluxes over the dorsal rim of the radius, often with dorsal pain.

Diagnostic Accuracy

• Sensitivity: 69%
• Specificity: 66%

References

• PubMed
• Watson Test (Scaphoid Shift Test) | Orthofixar