Wrist & Hand
General
Evidence: confirmed
Wrist Range of Motion Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Measuring physiological limits.
How to Perform
- Flexion: 65-80°.
- Extension: 55-70°.
- Radial Deviation: 15-20°.
- Ulnar Deviation: 30-45°.
Clinical Tips & Notes
| Movement | Normal ROM | Functional |
|---|---|---|
| Flexion | 65° | 10° |
| Extension | 35° | 15° |
| Ulnar Dev | 35° | 15° |
Clinical Context & Limitations
The Wrist Range of Motion should be considered as one component of a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. No single special test has perfect diagnostic accuracy; thus, clinical decision-making should integrate test results with patient-reported symptoms, mechanism of injury, functional impairment, and relevant imaging.
Clinicians should be aware of potential false-positive results in patients with pain sensitisation, muscle guarding, or poor relaxation. For the Wrist & Hand region, combining the Wrist Range of Motion with complementary examination tests significantly improves overall diagnostic confidence.
